By Esther Macha, Mbeya
Four suspects have been detained by police in Mbeya Region for allegedly stealing vital equipment from the government’s strategic 28 Towns Water Project.
The stolen items include 50 steel pipes, a leveling machine, and its stand, all critical for the ongoing construction works.
Mbeya Regional Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner Benjamin Kuzaga, told reporters on May 17, 2025, that the thefts occurred on April 22 and May 15 during police operations across different locations in Mbeya City.
“The suspects, identified as Edwin Liweuli, Chesco Muheze a security guard for the project, Hamza Madete from Igawa in Mbarali District, and Victor Timbulo from Ifakara in Morogoro Region, are accused of collaborating with a security officer from Jimson Security Company Ltd in Iringa to steal and transport the equipment,” said Commissioner Kuzaga.
They were intercepted while transporting the stolen goods on an unregistered Boxer motorcycle.
Local resident Lucy Andrea from Ingawa Ward praised the project for creating employment opportunities for communities in Mbarali and neighboring regions.
“The water project has brought hope and jobs to many people here. We urge the authorities to complete it swiftly to ease the water shortage faced by residents,” she said.
The 28 Towns Water Project is a government initiative executed in Rujewa Town, Mbarali District, by Larsen & Toubro Limited.
With a budget exceeding 50 billion Tanzanian shillings, the project aims to improve water supply services for residents in Mbeya and Njombe regions.