Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila has ordered the arrest of a property owner and a contractor after authorities found that a building in Masaki had been constructed up to 13 storeys despite approval for only six floors.
The directive was issued on August 6, 2026, during a regional inspection aimed at assessing compliance with building regulations and urban development standards.
Mr Chalamila said the arrests would allow authorities to conduct investigations into whether the building's foundation and structural design were capable of safely supporting the additional floors.
"We must establish whether the foundation was designed for a six-storey building or for the 13 floors that were eventually constructed," he said.
The Regional Commissioner directed engineers and other technical experts to carry out an immediate structural assessment to determine the safety of the building and identify any risks to occupants and neighbouring properties.
He said legal action would be taken against all parties found to have violated construction regulations, stressing that adherence to approved building plans is essential for public safety.
The discovery has raised concerns over compliance with construction permits in the city, where rapid urban growth has increased demand for commercial and residential developments.
Mr Chalamila warned that authorities would intensify inspections and enforcement measures against developers who disregard approved plans or alter projects without obtaining the required approvals.
He said the government would not tolerate actions that compromise public safety, adding that developers, contractors and property owners must strictly comply with building laws and permit conditions.
The investigation is expected to establish the extent of the violations and determine any further regulatory or legal action against those involved.
