 By Charles Mkoka |
Dar es Salaam – In a significant breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking, the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, has arrested seven suspects and confiscated a staggering 2,207.56 kilograms of narcotics and medicinal drugs containing narcotic substances.
These coordinated operations, executed in the regions of Tanga and Dar es Salaam, mark a decisive victory in curbing the flow of illegal drugs. The seizures include large quantities of skunk, methamphetamine, heroin, and medicinal drugs containing fentanyl, underscoring the scale of the trafficking network.
This success highlights the unwavering commitment of Tanzanian authorities to dismantling drug networks and safeguarding the health and security of its citizens.
According to the DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo, the seized drugs include 1,500.6 kilograms of skunk, 687.76 kilograms of methamphetamine, 19.20 kilograms of heroin, and 10 bottles of medicinal drugs containing fentanyl.
The operations, executed in Dar es Salaam between November 14 and 19, were carried out in areas such as Sinza and Kariakoo. In Tanga, enforcement teams seized boats and vehicles used in transporting the drugs.
The Commissioner General emphasized that the arrest of these notorious drug dealers is not a reflection of their skill in evading the law but rather a testament to the relentless pursuit by the authorities.
He noted that the DCEA employs a special database to meticulously track suspects across the country, ensuring evidence is solid before making arrests. “Arresting someone involved in drugs requires sufficient evidence—whether they are caught selling, transporting, or otherwise engaged. Without it, accusations could lead to claims of defamation,” he explained.
In detailing the protocols for handling confiscated drugs, the Commissioner clarified that destroying large consignments requires court permission and is supervised by multiple law enforcement agencies. This ensures transparency and accountability, particularly for substances that cannot be stored for extended periods during ongoing cases.
The DCEA's efforts have achieved significant results in a short time, with operations targeting both urban and coastal regions.
In Tanga, a boat used for trafficking was seized, alongside vehicles including a Toyota Noah, a Nissan Juke, and a Scania truck registered in South Africa. “We are committed to ensuring that drugs become not only rare but eventually nonexistent in Tanzania,” the Commissioner stated.
The agency has divided its operations into five zones to strengthen its reach and protect Tanzanians from the harmful effects of drug use and trade.
The Commissioner highlighted the deliberate tactics of drug dealers to exploit vulnerable populations in expanding their illegal markets, adding that the agency has also begun investigating traditional healers who collaborate with traffickers by offering so-called protection.
“We’ve uncovered evidence such as charms and other items linked to these healers. Both the traffickers and their enablers will be held accountable,” he affirmed.
He also noted that numerous drug-related cases have already been successfully prosecuted, resulting in life sentences for offenders and the confiscation of their assets.
While a full list of cases was not disclosed, the Commissioner promised to share a comprehensive report in the future, reinforcing the agency’s dedication to eradicating drug use and trade across the country.
The DCEA remains resolute in its mission to protect the health and well-being of Tanzanians, vowing to dismantle the networks of drug dealers and their accomplices one by one until the threat is eliminated.
