Joseph Isangura
A 21-year-old student from Koteti College in Tanga, Bonus Mbono, appeared before the Kisutu Resident Magistrate’s Court on Monday, March 10, 2025, facing three charges related to content he posted on TikTok and the use of a SIM card registered under another person’s name.
State Attorney Erick Kamala presented the case before Senior Resident Magistrate Gwantwa Mwankuga. Before the charges were read, the magistrate informed Mbono that he was not required to enter a plea, as the court does not have jurisdiction over economic sabotage cases unless special permission is granted.
According to the prosecution, the first charge stems from a video Mbono allegedly edited and shared on TikTok on February 8, 2025. In the video, the image of Tanzania’s founding father, Julius Nyerere, appeared to move in and out of a Sh1000 banknote—an alteration authorities say was deliberately misleading.
The second charge accuses Mbono of using a device known as “Pix Vase” to create and upload the edited video, fully aware that the act was illegal.
The third charge relates to the use of a SIM card registered under the name Prisca Anthony on February 10, 2025, at Koteti College in Tanga. The prosecution claims Mbono used the SIM card without notifying the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), violating regulations.
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This case highlights Tanzania’s strict approach to digital content and cybersecurity laws. Authorities have been cracking down on misinformation on social media, citing concerns over its potential impact on public perception and security. Under the Cybercrimes Act, publishing false information can lead to hefty fines or imprisonment.
The misuse of SIM cards has also become a growing issue, with TCRA reporting a rise in fraudulent activities. The government has been actively enforcing regulations to curb identity-related crimes, which have become increasingly common.
Mbono remains in custody as the legal process continues. Since the Kisutu court does not have the jurisdiction to hear economic sabotage cases without special approval, the case is expected to be transferred to the appropriate court.
The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how authorities handle social media-related offenses, particularly those involving digital alterations and the spread of potentially misleading content.
