MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s anti-corruption authority has moved to clear the air after conflicting reports emerged over a high-profile cash seizure linked to the arrest of two foreign nationals in Dar es Salaam, saying the amount recovered was significantly lower than initially claimed.
The Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau (PCCB) confirmed that investigators recovered Sh2 billion, not Sh6 billion as had been widely reported earlier, during a search at a residential property in the Oysterbay area. The clarification came as the two suspects were formally charged in court with serious economic offences, including money laundering and leading an organised criminal network.
Confusion over the seized amount arose shortly after the arrests, when a local government leader publicly stated that investigators had found Sh6 billion packed in large sack-like bags following a tip-off from members of the public. The statement quickly gained traction on social media and in public discussions, fuelling speculation about the scale of the alleged criminal activity.
However, Kinondoni Regional PCCB head Christian Nyakizee dismissed those claims, stressing that the official figure is the one recorded in the charge sheet presented before the court. He said the Sh2 billion cited by prosecutors reflects the verified outcome of the search conducted by PCCB officers.
Nyakizee added that transparency was observed throughout the operation, noting that local leadership was invited to witness both the arrest and the search to avoid misinformation. He emphasized that the Bureau relies on documented evidence rather than public claims, particularly in sensitive cases involving large sums of money.
The two suspects, both residents of the upscale Masaki area, appeared before the Dar es Salaam Resident Magistrate’s Court at Kisutu on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Prosecutors told the court that investigations are still ongoing and requested more time before the accused can be required to enter a plea. Due to the nature of the charges, the court did not grant bail.
The case has drawn significant public attention, reflecting growing concern over financial crimes and illicit cash movements within urban centres. Analysts say such cases highlight the importance of accurate communication by authorities, especially when early reports can shape public perception long before facts are tested in court.
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PCCB officials reiterated that combating corruption and financial crimes remains a national priority. They cautioned against spreading unverified information, warning that exaggeration can undermine both investigations and public trust. According to the Bureau, only information contained in official court documents should be treated as authoritative.
Legal observers note that money laundering cases are often complex and require meticulous financial tracing, sometimes across borders. As a result, investigators typically proceed carefully to ensure that charges are supported by strong evidence and comply with both domestic and international standards on financial crimes, including those outlined in global frameworks against money laundering.
The Bureau’s clarification also comes amid broader public debate on accountability and transparency in the handling of corruption cases. In recent years, Tanzania has stepped up enforcement through institutions such as the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau, aiming to deter economic crimes and strengthen confidence in public institutions.
As the case proceeds through the judicial system, authorities say updates will be provided through official channels. For now, PCCB maintains that the facts before the court — including the Sh2 billion figure — remain the definitive record, underscoring the principle that justice must be guided by evidence rather than speculation, in line with the country’s legal framework under the law of Tanzania.
