Police in Morogoro Region have arrested 132 suspects linked to a wide range of criminal offences, including murder, drug trafficking, illegal hunting, robbery, gender-based violence and the production and distribution of illicit alcohol, following a month-long security operation.
Morogoro Regional Police Commander Andrew Kantimbo told journalists that the suspects were apprehended during special operations and patrols conducted between May 15 and June 10, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen public safety and curb crime across the region.
He said the success of the operation was largely due to close cooperation between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
“The police force remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and taking legal action against all individuals involved in criminal activities,” he said.
According to Mr Kantimbo, 78 of the suspects have already been taken to court, with some convicted and sentenced for various offences.
Among those convicted was Yossam Nyikwa Mkuyu, 40, a resident of Mingo Village in Mvomero District, who was sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of illegally possessing government trophies.
In a separate case, Adam Mlewa Mayengo, popularly known as “Pengo”, was sentenced to one year in prison by the Gairo District Court after being convicted of burglary and theft.
Police also reported progress in investigating serious crimes against persons, including a murder case involving Paul Gembe, also known as “Sinenepi”, a 20-year-old livestock keeper from Negero.
The suspect is accused of killing Kitu Bayayi Geleshi, 22, during an altercation that occurred on June 8 in Mziha Village, Turiani Division, Mvomero District.
Investigators said the victim sustained fatal head injuries after allegedly being struck with a blunt object following a dispute linked to excessive alcohol consumption. Court proceedings against the suspect are expected to begin soon.
The operation also targeted wildlife crimes. Working alongside rangers from the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), police arrested three suspects accused of engaging in illegal hunting activities.
The suspects Bashiri Hamisi Ngagii, 32, from Goba in Dar es Salaam, Ramadhani Sudi, 30, and Salum Juma Lukanda, 21 were allegedly found in possession of 42 dried pieces of antelope meat believed to have been obtained illegally.
In the fight against narcotics, police arrested 91 suspects and seized 69.9 kilogrammes of cannabis. Three additional suspects were arrested with 83 bundles of khat.
Authorities also intensified efforts against illicit alcohol, leading to the arrest of 13 suspects found with 185.5 litres of locally brewed gongo and 20 bottles of counterfeit alcoholic drinks branded to resemble commercial products.
The crackdown further resulted in the arrest of suspects linked to motorcycle-assisted robberies, commonly known as “vishandu”, which have been reported in several parts of the region.
Mr Kantimbo called on residents to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing timely information that could help prevent crime and enhance security.
He said community participation remains a critical component in maintaining peace and ensuring that criminals have no safe haven within the region.
