Authorities in Mahenge, Ulanga District in Morogoro Region, have arrested four people found with gemstones during a targeted security operation aimed at protecting the country’s mineral wealth and strengthening public trust in the formal trading system.
Resident Mining Officer for Mahenge, Jonas Mwano, speaking on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the Mining Commission, said the arrests followed intelligence reports showing that illegal gemstone trading was taking place in residential areas.
Mwano noted that the operation is part of the Government’s continued efforts to ensure that Tanzania’s minerals benefit citizens through regulated trade, transparency and lawful taxation.
The suspects were found with several types of gemstones, including Spinel, Rhodolite, Tourmaline and Volcanic Glass.
The minerals were seized from the home of one of the suspects, who was also caught carrying out gemstone cutting without the required licence, contrary to the Mining Act, Cap 123.
After the arrest, the suspects were taken to the Mahenge Police Station, where an investigation file, MHE/IR/1189/2025, was opened.
Mineral experts are currently assessing the stones to verify their weight, quality and market value.
Preliminary valuation shows that the gemstones are worth TZS 54.02 million, from which the Government expects to collect more than TZS 5.05 million through taxes and statutory charges revenue that Mwano said contributes directly to national development and essential public services.
He reminded gemstone dealers that gemstone cutting is strictly permitted for individuals with a valid licence, which costs TZS 2,930,256 (USD 1,200) per year.
Operating without this licence not only violates the law but also disrupts fair competition for legitimate traders.
Mwano urged all mineral traders to conduct their activities within the Mahenge Mineral Market, ensure they obtain valid licences, and avoid doing business in homes or other unregistered locations.
He warned that smuggling and trading outside official systems deprive the nation of revenue and will attract strict legal action.
He emphasized that inspections on mineral trading outside the formal system will continue in Mahenge and across all mining regions to ensure that all minerals pass through official markets, enhancing transparency, safety and Government revenue.
"This is about safeguarding our resources so that every Tanzanian benefits," Mwano said.
