Two men have been sentenced to six months in prison for making false claims that their genitals had been stolen, a case that sparked public panic and led to mob justice in Sumbawanga, Rukwa Region.
The suspects, Haruni Willium Mengo, 24, from Kalambazite, and Isack Simon Kaniki, 19, from Mshani, appeared before the Kipeta Primary Court on April 8, 2026.
Presiding over the case,Wiligisi Mbunda found them guilty of fabricating a report that resulted in the physical assault of Issa Athumani Kidungwe, 56, a resident of Handeni, Tanga.
According to court records, the incident occurred on April 6, 2026, in Mshani village, when Mengo and Kaniki falsely accused Mr. Kidungwe of stealing their genitals. Villagers, believing the claim, attacked him, causing bodily harm.
Authorities said five other suspects remain in police custody as legal procedures continue. The Rukwa Regional Police Force has since issued a stern warning to the public against spreading false information, emphasizing that fabrications not only cause panic but also endanger innocent lives. Citizens are urged to report suspicious activities immediately and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.
The Regional Police Commander reiterated that anyone found fabricating such claims will face strict legal consequences, underlining the importance of maintaining public order and allowing law enforcement to handle allegations properly.
