Defence Minister and National Service Dr. Stergomena Tax. Photo: Courtesy
By Adonis Byemelwa
Police announced on Tuesday that
investigations into the shocking allegations of gang rape and sodomy by
Tanzania People’s Defense Force (TPDF) officers are ongoing. The incident
involves an unnamed girl from Yombo, Temeke district, Dar es Salaam, and has
stirred a wave of outrage nationwide.
Police spokesperson David Misime
addressed the public, urging calm amid widespread demands for updates. He
acknowledged the surge in calls and concerns regarding the arrest of the
alleged perpetrators.
The law enforcement agency is
actively searching for at least five men who filmed themselves committing the
heinous act, purportedly under the orders of a female army officer. The officer
allegedly targeted the girl in retaliation, accusing her of having an affair
with her husband, also a TPDF member.
The distressing video, which has
gone viral, shows the men interrogating the girl about her supposed affair
before subjecting her to brutal sexual assault. This footage has incited fury
among Tanzanians and human rights advocates, who are calling for swift justice.
“The Police Force calls on all
of us to reflect on how we discuss this matter and share opinions on social
media and in the media,” Mr. Misime stated. “Are we not exacerbating the
emotional wounds of this girl? Are we not causing psychological harm to her
family by continuing this conversation?”
Home Affairs Minister Hamad
Masauni confirmed that those appearing in the video have been arrested and are
awaiting further legal proceedings. He emphasized the government's commitment
to ensuring that justice is served and that such acts of brutality will not be
tolerated.
The public's reaction
underscores the profound impact of this case on the national psyche,
highlighting a collective demand for accountability and protection of
vulnerable individuals.
The investigation aims to deliver justice for
the victim and reaffirm the nation's stand against such reprehensible acts.