By Our Reporter
Police in Mwanza Region have arrested 355 suspects in a security sweep targeting individuals accused of theft and robbery committed during and after the October 29, 2025 General Election.
Regional Police Commander, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Wilbroad Mutafungwa, said the suspects have already been taken to court to face various criminal charges connected to incidents reported in the aftermath of the polls.
In a statement issued on Monday, Mutafungwa said security teams also arrested an additional 116 people accused of incitement and mobilising for what authorities describe as planned illegal demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
According to the police chief, some of the 355 suspects were found in possession of a wide range of stolen items, including 118 gas cylinders belonging to Lake Oil, Oryx and Mihan companies, 40 mattresses of the Super Banco and Tanform brands, and 18 rolls of fabric used for mattress production.
“Other suspects were arrested with a vehicle differential, three vehicle engines, a gearbox, two ATM machines, four water tanks, three fire extinguishers, one compressor, four drums of mattress-manufacturing chemicals, a Voni refrigerator, two speaker casings, paint buckets and 14 iron sheets,” Mutafungwa said.
The Mwanza Regional Police Command said it has intensified patrols across the region to maintain public safety.
Authorities warned members of the public against joining the banned demonstrations, saying participation in unlawful assemblies could lead to prosecution.
Police have also appealed to parents and guardians to prevent minors from becoming involved in the planned protests.
The statement further urged citizens to work with the government to preserve peace and stability, especially as the country prepares to commemorate Independence Day on December 9.
