Dar es Salaam — Police here have arrested 37 suspects in connection with a series of cybercrimes, including issuing threats and using abusive language online.
The arrests took place on April 20, 2026, in the Ubungo district, as part of an ongoing effort to curb digital offences in the region.
Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander Jumanne Muliro announced the arrests during a press conference on April 27, stating that the suspects were using digital platforms to target various individuals.
“We will continue to prevent criminal acts through cooperation with citizens and other security stakeholders,” Commander Muliro said.
Investigations revealed that some of the suspects are employees of Innovix Call Co Ltd and Otaigo Financial Services Company Limited, both of which operate as online lending firms.
Among those detained are Renatus Mujwahuzi, a well-known influencer from Mbezi Beach; Odilia Oswin Ngunga from Goba; and Theresia Brastius Kanu from Mtoni Kijichi.
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The suspects are expected to face charges under the Tanzania Cybercrimes Act of 2015, which criminalises cyberbullying, the publication of false information, and racist or xenophobic insults.
Commander Muliro emphasised the severity of the offences, noting, “These are very serious and cruel crimes that the police force, in cooperation with other legal authorities, have been dealing with.”
The police also highlighted recent successes in prosecuting other serious crimes in the region between March and April 2026.
Several individuals have been convicted and handed lengthy sentences, including Hashimu Kasimu Duma from Kimara, who received life imprisonment for defilement.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain security.
“We want citizens who have reported crimes to come to legal authorities, including courts, to give their evidence,” Muliro stated, adding that public cooperation is critical in ensuring offenders are held accountable.
While the security situation in Dar es Salaam remains generally calm, the rise in digital offences has prompted increased scrutiny of online operations.
The arrests underscore the growing challenges law enforcement faces in regulating the digital space and protecting citizens from online harassment and fraud.
Although this specific operation targeted cyberbullying and threats related to online lending, the broader context of digital rights in the region remains complex.
In recent years, the application of cybercrime laws has sometimes raised concerns among human rights advocates regarding the arrests of journalists and critics, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining security and protecting freedom of expression.
