Illegal
immigration has become a significant concern in Tanzania, with numerous cases
reported in various regions. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
In a recent operation conducted
by the police and other security agencies, six Ethiopian nationals were
arrested for allegedly entering Tanzania without proper documentation. The
Morogoro Regional Police Commander, Alex Mkama, reported that the arrests took
place on July 20, 2024, in the Kisisi Forest area of Malolo Village, Kilosa
District, Morogoro Region.
"We managed to apprehend
the suspects at around 9:00 AM in the Kisisi area, where they were found hiding
in Malolo Village, Malolo B Ward. They have since been handed over to the
immigration authorities for further action," Commander Mkama stated.
Morogoro Regional Deputy
Immigration Officer, Richard Mwasongwe, confirmed the arrests and emphasized
the legal consequences for individuals involved in facilitating illegal
immigration. He warned citizens against such activities, highlighting the
severe penalties outlined in the Immigration Act of 2016, Chapter 54, Section
46 Subsection 1C and 2.
"I urge citizens to refrain
from transporting illegal immigrants," Mwasongwe said. "Those caught
will face strict legal action, including a fine of TSh 20 million or a 20-year
prison sentence. Additionally, any property, including vehicles, used in the
process will be confiscated."
This incident is part of a
broader issue of illegal immigration facing Tanzania. In the past six months,
there have been multiple arrests of illegal immigrants in various regions of
the country. Notably, some cases involved V8 vehicles, including those with
government registration numbers and the ruling party’s flag, transporting
illegal immigrants in the central part of Tanzania. These events highlight
ongoing challenges in border security and enforcement, as well as the need for
continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies and the public.
Illegal immigration has become a
significant concern in Tanzania, with numerous cases reported in various
regions. The influx of undocumented individuals poses challenges for the
country, including security risks and strains on resources. Tanzanian law takes
a firm stance against illegal immigration, emphasizing the need to regulate and
monitor entry and residence within the country.
The Immigration Act of 2016
provides the legal framework for handling immigration issues in Tanzania. Under
Chapter 54, Section 46, the Act specifies the penalties for illegal entry,
harboring, or transporting undocumented individuals. The law mandates a fine of
up to TSh 20 million or imprisonment for up to 20 years for those found guilty
of facilitating illegal immigration. Furthermore, any assets used in the
commission of these crimes, such as vehicles or property, are subject to
confiscation.
These stringent measures aim to
deter illegal immigration and protect national security. The government,
through its immigration and law enforcement agencies, conducts regular
operations to identify and detain individuals residing in the country without
proper documentation. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure
that all foreign nationals comply with Tanzanian immigration laws.
Ethiopia,
often cited as a significant source of illegal immigrants in Tanzania, faces a
combination of factors that drive its citizens to seek entry into other
countries, including Tanzania. Political instability, economic challenges, and
conflicts in certain regions of Ethiopia have created conditions that compel
people to flee in search of better living conditions and opportunities.
As
well, issues such as poverty, unemployment, and limited access to basic
services contribute to the migration flow. Many Ethiopians view Tanzania as a
transit point or a potential destination for reaching other countries in
Southern Africa, where they hope to find safety and economic prospects. This
complex situation underscores the need for regional cooperation in addressing
the root causes of migration and implementing effective border management and
immigration policies.