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Police in Mara Region have arrested 18 individuals, including a driver, conductor, and 16 passengers, following an incident in which a traffic officer was assaulted.
The incident took place on September 18, 2024, around 6:00 PM during a routine traffic check.
According to Chief Traffic Police Officer, Butusyo Mwambelo, the attack occurred when the officer attempted to enforce safety regulations by asking passengers standing in the vehicle to step down. “The officer was performing his duty when the situation escalated. The conductor shut the door, and the driver, along with passengers, assaulted the officer inside the vehicle,” Mwambelo said.
The officer, who sustained injuries in the attack, was later rescued by fellow officers. The suspects were quickly apprehended and taken into custody. Mwambelo condemned the incident, stating that such behavior towards law enforcement is alarming and will not be tolerated.
“The fact that a public officer, performing his lawful duty, could be attacked in such a manner is unacceptable. We are asking ourselves: have we, as a society, reached this level of disrespect?” he remarked during a press briefing held on September 19, 2024, at Geita’s Main Bus Station.
The incident has raised serious concerns about public respect for the rule of law. Police are continuing their investigations and have assured the public that all individuals involved will face charges. “Legal action will be taken against all those involved, without exception,” Mwambelo added.
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The Mara Region Police have heightened their traffic checks and safety enforcement following the attack. The arrests come as part of a broader campaign to ensure road safety and protect law enforcement officers from violence while on duty.
The 18 suspects remain in custody, awaiting formal charges. Authorities are calling on the public to cooperate with police efforts to maintain law and order, emphasizing that violence against officers will not be condoned.
