The Tanzania Police Force said on Sunday it had launched a manhunt for individuals accused of spreading fear and inciting criminal acts through online messages, urging citizens to remain calm and continue with their daily activities.
Police spokesperson and Deputy Commissioner David Misime said authorities were tracking the suspects “day and night” and warned that the messages were intended to sow division and provoke violence.
He said those behind the online content were believed to be outside the country and lacked the capacity or opportunity to carry out the acts they were promoting.
“The aim is to create hostility and push people into criminal behaviour,” Misime told reporters, adding that police would take firm action against anyone found engaging in or encouraging unlawful acts.
Police named an individual who identifies himself as “TFF” among those under investigation, accusing him of circulating false claims online, including allegations of conducting training exercises in forests and involvement in criminal incidents. Police denied the claims.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining security across Tanzania and called on the public to ignore the messages and report any suspicious information through official channels.