Eleven Arrested in Tanzania for Poaching; Teacher Detained for Alleged Rape

In Morogoro, Tanzania, eleven individuals were arrested for wildlife poaching while a school teacher was detained for allegedly raping a 16-year-old student. A police operation resulted in seizures of firearms and ammunition linked to unlawful hunting. Additionally, a truck driver was apprehended for conspiring to destroy evidence after stealing diesel fuel. Investigations are ongoing.

In Morogoro, Tanzania, law enforcement officials have apprehended eleven individuals for alleged wildlife poaching, as well as a school teacher accused of rape. According to Regional Police Commander Alex Mkama, the arrests were made during a targeted operation on March 14, 2025, conducted in conjunction with wildlife rangers. The suspects were reportedly found with various firearms and traditional hunting weapons used unlawfully within national parks.

During a press briefing held on March 20, Commander Mkama detailed the successful operation that culminated in the capturing of ten poaching suspects, who were armed with shotguns and a muzzleloader. He highlighted the comprehensive efforts of the unique task force, in partnership with Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa) officers, to combat illegal poaching activities, stating that investigations would continue until all suspects could be arraigned before authorities.

The arrested individuals include Safari Tamba (23), Jacob Chigange (50), Marthias Ndalu (20), and several others, hailing from various regions. The police retrieved a substantial arsenal, consisting of 22 rounds of ammunition, locally made bullet heads, shotgun cartridges, and other hunting equipment. Additionally, authorities confiscated two duiker heads, quills, a bow, and arrows.

In a separate incident, police also detained Abubakar Mwichangwe (29), a driver implicated in the theft of fuel and subsequent destruction of evidence. He was arrested for allegedly setting fire to a truck carrying 35,700 liters of diesel, valued at TZS 77.112 billion, which was en route to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Both investigations remain ongoing with further developments anticipated.

The Morogoro incidents highlight ongoing challenges related to wildlife poaching and other criminal activities in Tanzania. The successful arrests executed by law enforcement and wildlife authorities underscore the commitment to combating illegal poaching and ensuring justice for grave offenses such as rape and large-scale theft. Continued investigations in both matters are crucial for addressing these serious allegations.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz