The Mbeya Regional Police have confirmed the fatal shooting of a suspected armed robber, Fabian Francis widely known as Fundi Seremala a carpenter and resident of Isyesye, Mbeya.
Police say the suspect was shot as he attempted to flee during an operation to recover stolen property linked to a string of violent crimes.
According to Mbeya Regional Police Commander Benjamin Kuzaga, the incident occurred as officers escorted Francis to a forested area near Forest Secondary School, where he had allegedly hidden stolen items and weapons.
“The suspect tried to escape while guiding officers to the scene. Despite warning shots being fired into the air and commands to stop, he continued fleeing. Officers were left with no choice but to use force,” said Commander Kuzaga.
Francis sustained a gunshot wound to his left leg and was rushed to Mbeya Zonal Referral Hospital for emergency treatment. However, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Police believe Francis was a central figure in a gang responsible for a series of violent armed robberies across the region.
He was allegedly in illegal possession of a military-grade SKS rifle, which authorities suspect was used in several criminal incidents.
One such case involved the robbery of agency banking machines from NMB and CRDB banks, during which a resident, Bakari Mbilinyi (32), was severely injured after being struck in the head.
Commander Kuzaga said that following this incident, police launched an intensive manhunt that led to the arrest of four suspects: Salim Msambule (36) from Mufindi in Iringa, Charles Lukenda (43) from Makambako, Christopher Mwakanani (37) from Tukuyu, and Noah Paul (32) from Uyole.
“During questioning, the suspects admitted to involvement in multiple armed robberies and named Fabian as the supplier and owner of the weapon used in their operations,” Kuzaga said.
A search of Francis’s carpentry workshop, Bamboo Furniture, located in the Sai area of Mbeya, yielded crucial evidence. Police recovered an SKS rifle with 28 rounds of live ammunition, two spent cartridges, metal rods, a pair of pliers, a small machete, sanding tools, and other items believed to be used for modifying firearms.
“After further interrogation, the suspect agreed to show officers where he had hidden more stolen property and ammunition,” said Commander Kuzaga. “But upon arriving at the scene, he suddenly bolted and tried to escape. Despite all efforts to apprehend him without harm, the situation escalated.”
Commander Kuzaga expressed regret over the suspect's death but emphasized that police acted within their mandate after all non-lethal options were exhausted.
The investigation remains ongoing as police continue to pursue leads in connection with the wider criminal network. Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement in reporting suspicious activities.
