Jackson Kabalo and Joseph Mrindoko, both residents of Arusha, were arrested on Friday, June 20, 2025, on charges related to cybercrime, according to Arusha police.

The two have recently gained significant popularity in Tanzania’s digital space for their critical analysis of political issues, including the national debt, the upcoming election, religious matters, and various social issues. Their podcast, known as Wachokonozi, is broadcast on YouTube and other social media platforms.

Initial reports that the duo had been abducted sparked alarm online, particularly because it was unclear which police station they had been taken to. Concerns grew further after it was reported that they were taken by individuals driving a white Land Cruiser, a vehicle commonly linked to previous abduction incidents in the country. The police issued an official statement on June 22, 2025, clarifying the situation.

“On some social media platforms, there have been claims that two individuals were arrested by unknown assailants in the Maji ya Chai area, Arumeru District, Arusha Region. The truth is that on June 20, 2025, the Arusha Regional Police Force arrested those individuals—Jackson Kabalo (32) and Joseph Mrindoko (37)—both entrepreneurs and residents of Maji ya Chai, Arumeru District, Arusha Region, on allegations of misusing social media platforms,” the police said in their statement.

The local street chairperson for the area where the two live confirmed that the police identified themselves to him during the operation, as required by law. He also stated that he was present during the arrest and witnessed a camera and microphone being taken from one of the homes.