Introduction to the Unrest and Police Response
In the wake of a series of violent disturbances that occurred across multiple cities in Tanzania, the Tanzania Police Force has taken significant steps to address the situation. The unrest, which began on October 29, 2025, affected several major urban centers, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya, Shinyanga, Geita, Songwe, Ruvuma, Mara, Dodoma, Kilimanjaro, and Iringa. As a result of the chaos, there were reports of loss of life, destruction of public and private property, and widespread looting.
Impact of the Unrest
The incidents led to extensive damage to public infrastructure. Offices of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), court buildings, police stations, and Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) of various banks were either vandalized or set on fire. Additionally, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations along the Kimara–Magomeni and Magomeni–Morocco routes, local government offices, and several buildings belonging to the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party were also damaged.
Roads were torched using tyres, and numerous public vehicles were burnt. Private property owners faced similar challenges, with petrol stations, shops, and both large and small vehicles destroyed. Looting in commercial areas resulted in the theft of goods and cash.
Actions Taken by the Police
Despite the scale of the unrest, some of the suspects have already been arrested and brought before the courts. The Tanzania Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, is actively pursuing those who are alleged to have planned, coordinated, and executed the unrest. The police have urged the public to cooperate by providing any information that could lead to the arrest of those involved.
The Ten Individuals Named as Wanted
The police have officially named ten individuals for questioning in relation to the incidents. These individuals are:
- Josephat Gwajima
- Brenda Jonas Rupia
- John Mnyika
- Godbless Jonathan Lema
- Machumu Maximillian Kadutu
- Deogratius Cosmas Mahinyila
- Boniface Jacob
- Hilda Newton
- Award Kalonga
- Amaan Golugwa
“The named individuals are strongly advised to surrender themselves to the nearest police station immediately upon seeing this announcement,” the statement read.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Legal proceedings against those already apprehended are ongoing nationwide, with some suspects having been brought before courts on November 7, 2025. The Tanzania Police Force has reiterated its commitment to taking legal action against any individual or group planning to commit crimes of any nature.
Commitment to Public Safety
The police have assured the public that they remain committed to professionalism in safeguarding lives and property. Citizens have been encouraged to continue with their daily activities without fear and to promptly report any signs of criminal activity or breach of peace to the authorities.
Future Steps and Communication
The Police have pledged to keep the public informed as investigations and legal actions progress against those responsible for the October unrest. This includes updates on the status of the cases and any further developments related to the individuals involved.