Police in Shinyanga have arrested 153 people suspected of various offences, including 47 suspected illegal immigrants, in a series of operations aimed at curbing crime and improving public safety in the region.
Shinyanga Regional Police Commander SACP Janeth Magomi said in a statement issued on August 26 that the suspects were arrested in different parts of the region during ongoing police operations.
The 47 foreign nationals are suspected of entering and staying in Tanzania without valid permits, according to the police.
The operations also resulted in the seizure of counterfeit currency worth TSh1.53 million, 43 kilogrammes of khat and 380 kilogrammes of cannabis.
Police further seized 26 motorcycles, 13 bags of cement, 20 pieces of reinforcing steel bars, 70 pieces of timber, one bicycle and a fire extinguisher.
Police said 24 suspects whose cases had reached court were convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from four months to 30 years.
The convictions covered offences including theft, obtaining money by false pretences, rape, abuse and other crimes.
Some of those convicted were fined, with imprisonment imposed as an alternative in cases where the fines are not paid.
Separately, Shinyanga traffic police recorded 5,291 road traffic violations during enforcement operations.
Of these, 4,079 involved motor vehicles, while 1,212 involved motorcycles and three-wheelers.
Police said offenders were dealt with under the law, including through on-the-spot fines.
Six drivers had their licences suspended over a three-month period after being found driving at speeds of up to 116 kilometres per hour, according to the statement.
Beyond enforcement, police said they have stepped up community engagement, holding 448 public awareness meetings through radio stations, schools, motorcycle operators' centres, bus terminals and markets.
The campaigns have focused on gender-based violence, community policing, youth conduct and road safety.
Residents have also been encouraged to report crimes and suspected offenders promptly and to work with security authorities in maintaining peace and public safety.
The police thanked residents for their cooperation and urged motorists and other road users to observe traffic laws to help reduce accidents and protect lives and property.