By Adonis Byemelwa
Rufiji – The Tanzania Police on December 14, 2024, successfully intercepted a large shipment of stolen copper, following a major operation conducted on December 12, 2024.
Two suspects were arrested in connection with the theft of copper materials believed to have been illegally obtained from Tanesco and the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC). The copper was found in their possession in the Rufiji region.
The police operation led to the seizure of 608.6 kilograms of copper wire linked to Tanesco and another 5,500.17 kilograms tied to TRC.
The police also recovered 426 copper blocks, weighing a total of 7,728 kilograms, during the raid. These materials had been illicitly removed from the electrical and railway systems in the region.
Authorities have raised concerns over the theft of copper, which significantly impacts the infrastructure of Tanzania's energy and transport sectors. The copper blocks are believed to have been sold to unauthorized traders who had been repurposing the metal.
In addition to the arrests, police continue to investigate further suspects involved in the illegal trade of copper, warning that any individuals caught attempting to steal or trade in such materials will face severe legal consequences.
The operation is ongoing, and the authorities are determined to crack down on the growing issue of copper theft, which is costing Tanzania's vital sectors both financially and in terms of infrastructure damage.