Joseph Isangura
Tanzania’s Police Force has opened an investigation into a video that has been making the rounds on social media, allegedly showing the Chunya District Police Commander giving instructions to fuel station operators in Mbeya Region.
The footage has sparked debate online and raised questions about whether the officer had the authority to issue such directives publicly.
In a statement released on November 26, 2025, Police Spokesperson DCP David Misime said the force is working to determine where the video came from, how it was recorded, and whether the message reflects any official position of the police. Misime made it clear that district commanders are not permitted to call press briefings or issue public statements without authorization from the police headquarters, which oversees official communication procedures.
According to Misime, the investigation aims to establish the facts before any conclusions are drawn. He noted that if the inquiry finds that proper procedures were ignored, appropriate action will be taken in line with police regulations. He also urged Tanzanians to avoid spreading unverified information that could heighten tension or mislead the public.
The video in question appears to be linked to earlier comments attributed to Chunya District Commander SSP Nestory John, who reportedly warned fuel sellers against providing more than one litre of petrol at a time to motorcycle taxi operators. The concern, he suggested, was tied to reports of possible mobilization for demonstrations ahead of December 9—an event that authorities fear could lead to unrest or vandalism, including potential attacks on fuel stations.
John was also quoted saying that anyone selling fuel in containers or operating informal fuel businesses would face increased monitoring, as part of efforts to curb illegal trade and prevent unsafe handling of petroleum products. He stressed that cooperation between residents and security agencies would be crucial in maintaining calm in the district.
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During his remarks, John encouraged fuel stations to install CCTV cameras to help improve surveillance and strengthen the ability to identify and respond to security threats. Such measures, he said, could play a vital role in deterring criminal activity and supporting broader public safety efforts.
The Police Force, however, has emphasized that only authorized officials can issue formal statements on behalf of the institution, reiterating that national security communication follows established protocols. The situation has drawn attention to how police information is shared with the public—an area governed by regulations and shaped by the country’s broader governance structure, which aligns with principles common in systems like a unitary state.
The debate also touches on the wider issue of how societies manage the risk of public gatherings. Globally, concerns over demonstrations are often linked to discussions around public protests, particularly when authorities fear they could escalate into violence or property damage. Similarly, the handling and distribution of fuel falls within the broader landscape of the petroleum industry, where safety and regulation are key priorities.
