A Form Three student from Kibindu Secondary School in Chalinze District, Pwani Region, is in police custody after allegedly giving birth to a baby girl inside a school toilet and attempting to dispose of the newborn in a pit latrine located within the girls’ dormitory area.
The incident, which occurred on May 19, 2026 at around 4:00 a.m., caused shock and panic at the school after another student reportedly heard unusual sounds coming from the toilet and raised an alarm.
According to the Pwani Regional Police Commander, Salim Morcase of the Tanzania Police Force, the matter was discovered when a fellow student noticed bloodstains near the toilet opening.
When she poured water into the latrine, she heard what appeared to be the sound of a baby, prompting her to immediately alert school authorities.
Police said preliminary investigations indicate that the student had been pregnant for nine months, but the condition went unnoticed throughout the period, allegedly due to the wearing of loose clothing.
The student reportedly experienced severe abdominal pain before going to the toilet, where she delivered the baby.
Authorities further reported that after delivery, the student allegedly attempted to dispose of the newborn in the pit latrine.
However, swift action by fellow students and school officials led to an immediate rescue operation involving village leaders and local police.
The newborn was successfully retrieved from the toilet and, together with the mother, was rushed to Kibindu Health Centre for medical attention. Both are currently receiving treatment and are under close observation.
Police confirmed that once medical treatment is completed, the case will proceed to further legal procedures in accordance with the law.
In a separate incident in the same district, police are holding a 22-year-old man, Kesi Juma Ibrahim, a farmer and resident of Kifuleta village in Chalinze, on allegations of sexually abusing a six-year-old girl, whose identity has been withheld for legal reasons.
According to Commander Morcase, the incident is reported to have occurred on May 17, 2026 at around 7:00 p.m.
The suspect allegedly lured the child, who is his neighbour, into his room where the offence is said to have taken place.
The parents of the child later discovered the incident and immediately reported it to Mbwewe Police Station. Police acted swiftly and arrested the suspect while investigations continue before he is brought before court.
The police commander condemned both incidents, describing them as serious violations of human rights, and urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement authorities by reporting crimes early to prevent further harm.
Authorities also reiterated their commitment to intensifying efforts against gender-based violence and child abuse, calling on communities to remain vigilant and protect vulnerable groups, especially children and students in schools.
