Joseph Isangura
The Tanzania Police Force has released the names of ten individuals wanted in connection with the widespread violence that erupted on 29 October 2025 across major regions including Dar es Salaam,
Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya, Shinyanga, Geita, Songwe, Ruvuma, Mara, Dodoma, Kilimanjaro and Iringa. According to the official statement, the episodes of unrest resulted in loss of life, large‑scale destruction of public and private property, and looting on a massive scale.
Public infrastructure was heavily targeted: offices of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB), court buildings, police stations and bank ATMs were among those vandalised or set ablaze. The Police say they believe the ten individuals named played key roles in planning, coordinating or executing the mayhem.
The people now wanted are: Josephat Gwajima; Brenda Jones Rupia; John Mnyika; Godbless Lema; Machumu Kadutu; Deogratius Mahinyila; Boniface Jacob; Hilda Newton; Award Kalonga; and Amaan Golugwa. Some of these suspects have already been arrested and arraigned, while others remain at large. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, are continuing their search.
Also Read: Mwanza Court Detains 172 Over Violent District Clashes
The unrest followed closely on the heels of the country’s 2025 Tanzanian general election and has left many families in anguish — still searching for loved ones who disappeared amid the violence or are confirmed dead. Hospitals across several regions report receiving casualties but the full toll remains unclear, in part because of restricted access and lingering security concerns.
Observers say that the protests were sparked by mounting frustration over what many Tanzanians viewed as a flawed electoral process, deep political grievances and a sense that the normal channels for redress were blocked.
While the authorities push for the arrests of those deemed responsible, the broader community faces the daunting task of reconstruction, healing and restoring trust. The government has urged citizens to return to their daily routines and continue business as usual, even as the investigation progresses and more persons may be brought to book.
