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Police in Dar es Salaam have intensified efforts to combat crime and improve public safety, leading to the arrest of several suspects linked to offences ranging from receiving stolen property and robbery to sexual crimes and traffic violations.
The Dar es Salaam Special Police Zone said the city's security situation remained stable throughout May 2026, attributing the calm environment to strengthened law enforcement operations and close cooperation with investigative agencies and members of the public.
Among those arrested was Abasi Kadewele, popularly known as “Big Santiago”, a resident of Msongola, who is suspected of receiving stolen property.
Police recovered 13 smartphones of different brands, two laptop computers and three external hard drives believed to have been stolen from various parts of the city.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to trace the owners of the recovered items and establish possible links to other criminal incidents reported in recent months.
The latest security report also highlighted road safety enforcement measures undertaken during the period.
Eight drivers were arrested after being found operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol. The suspects included seven private vehicle drivers and one driver of a government vehicle.
Police said the arrests underscore continued efforts to reduce road accidents and promote responsible driving practices in the city.
Traffic officers also apprehended 16,790 motorcycle riders for a range of traffic offences, including running red lights, failing to give way to pedestrians at designated crossings and operating motorcycles without protective helmets.
Of those cited, 13,412 were operators of two-wheeled motorcycles, while 3,378 were riding three-wheeled motorcycles.
According to police, some offenders were issued warnings and educated on road safety regulations, while others faced legal penalties depending on the nature of the offences committed.
The force also released updates on several criminal cases that have reached conclusion in court, resulting in lengthy prison sentences for convicted offenders.
The Temeke District Court sentenced Nassoro Severin, commonly known as “Mazuta”, to 30 years in prison after finding him guilty of rape.
In a separate ruling, Issa Miraji, alias “Maramoja”, a resident of Mbagala, was handed a 30-year jail term for armed robbery.
Another Temeke resident, Jamali Said Ally of Tandika, was also sentenced to 30 years in prison following his conviction for rape.
Police described the convictions as evidence of the effectiveness of collaboration between investigators, prosecutors and the judiciary in ensuring justice is served.
The Dar es Salaam Special Police Zone has called on residents to remain vigilant and continue sharing information on suspicious activities, stressing that community participation remains a critical pillar in the fight against crime.
"Public cooperation is vital in helping security agencies prevent criminal activities and maintain peace and safety for all residents," the police said.
The force reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property while continuing operations aimed at deterring crime and enhancing public confidence in law enforcement institutions.
