Dar es Salaam’s Special Police Zone Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) Jumanne Muliro, has urged police officers to concentrate on their core duties of enforcing the law and protecting citizens.
Speaking at Raha Square in Kariakoo, Ilala District, after meeting with local market traders, Muliro said the visit aimed to review security matters and hear directly from traders about challenges affecting their businesses.
One major concern raised by traders is that some police officers have been detaining businesspeople at busy market intersections, accusing them of operating without valid permits from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) or the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS). These actions, they said, cause unnecessary delays and disrupt market operations.
“I have instructed the Ilala Police Commander to ensure officers focus on their primary duties rather than tasks outside their mandate. If there are any legal violations, officers should investigate in coordination with relevant authorities such as Immigration, TRA, or TBS, instead of acting independently,” Muliro said.
He added that officers engaging in such behavior lack proper intentions, noting that following official procedures would involve consulting supervisors rather than acting for personal gain. He stressed that these actions damage the reputation of the Police Force.
Muliro praised Kariakoo traders for their cooperation, noting that their partnership has strengthened security in the area.
He also commended individuals who have installed CCTV cameras, saying the technology has been key in identifying offenders.
“Pickpocketing and theft from vehicles were common in Kariakoo Market, but with CCTV, we have been able to identify perpetrators quickly,” he said.
He emphasized that both visible and covert security measures are in place to protect lives and property, ensuring the market remains a safe space for business.
Muliro also warned transport operators, including bajajis and motorized rickshaws, against using main highways as if they were buses, calling the practice dangerous and a risk for accidents.
“Our duty is to safeguard lives and enforce the law while respecting human rights and constitutional principles,” he said.
Highlighting the market’s role as a major commercial hub attracting people from across the country, Muliro stressed the need for strengthened security to maintain a safe business environment.
Severin Mushi, Chairman of the Kariakoo Market Traders Association, said the commander’s regular visits are appreciated, but traders hope the issue of some officers obstructing goods from entering the market will be resolved.
Officers often position themselves at intersections such as Msimbazi and Karume, acting as if they were TRA or TBS officials.
“Even when we show valid permits, we are sometimes told they are insufficient and told to wait,” Mushi said.
He added that these practices have caused some foreign traders to relocate their businesses, but he expressed hope that Commander Muliro’s directives will allow all traders to operate freely and safely.
