Two suspects have been arrested in Longido District, Arusha Region, after authorities intercepted 254 livestock that were allegedly being smuggled across the border to a neighbouring country.
The suspects were apprehended during a joint operation conducted by the Police Force’s Stock Theft Prevention Unit (STPU) and the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries in Olkesumet Village, Sinonik Ward.
The National Commander of the Stock Theft Prevention Unit, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) Simon Pasua, said the operation led to the seizure of 70 cattle and 184 goats and sheep that were being transported illegally.
“The suspects were found with 254 livestock, including 70 cattle and 184 goats and sheep, which were being moved through unofficial channels to a neighbouring country,” SACP Pasua said.
He said investigations are ongoing and that the suspects will face legal action upon completion of the inquiry.
The latest arrest highlights the government's continued efforts to curb livestock smuggling, a practice authorities say undermines legitimate trade, deprives the State of revenue and weakens oversight of cross-border livestock movements.
SACP Pasua urged livestock keepers and traders to comply with all legal requirements governing the transportation and export of animals, including the payment of mandatory levies and obtaining the necessary permits.
He stressed that taxes and levies charged on livestock transportation, particularly for exports, are statutory obligations intended to support regulation of the sector and enhance public revenue collection.
The police commander also called on communities living in border areas to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing information on suspected livestock-related crimes.
According to him, public participation remains critical in combating livestock smuggling and other forms of illegal trade that threaten the growth and sustainability of Tanzania’s livestock industry.
Tanzania's livestock sector is among the key contributors to rural livelihoods and the national economy, making efforts to curb illegal cross-border trade an important component of broader measures aimed at protecting the industry's value chain and safeguarding government revenue.
