Joseph Isangura
The Resident Magistrate’s Court of Dodoma (Integrated Justice Delivery Centre) has sentenced four individuals, including officers from the Tanzania People’s Defense Forces (JWTZ) and the Prisons Department, to life imprisonment and fined them one million Tanzanian shillings each.
This verdict was delivered after the court found them guilty of two heinous crimes: gang rape and sodomizing a young woman, a resident of Yombo Dovya, Dar es Salaam.
The criminal case, numbered 23476 of 2024, involved four defendants, among them MT 140105 Clinton Damas, known as “Nyundo,” who is a TPDF officer, and C.1693 Praygod Mushi, an officer from the Prisons Department. The other accused were Nickson Jackson, also known as “Machuche,” and Amin Lema, famously known as “Kindamba.”
The case, popularly referred to as “Waliotumwa na Afande” (meaning ‘Sent by the Commander’), was heard privately at the Resident Magistrate’s Court of Dodoma. Throughout the proceedings, the prosecution team presented 18 witnesses and submitted 12 exhibits to substantiate the charges against the accused, establishing a strong case for their conviction.
The convicted individuals were charged with engaging in a brutal act of sexual violence against the young woman, violating her bodily integrity by committing gang rape and sodomy. These grave offenses shocked the community and drew widespread condemnation, highlighting the urgent need for justice and the protection of women from such egregious acts.
During the trial, the prosecution presented a compelling case, featuring witness testimonies and material evidence that convincingly demonstrated the involvement of the accused in the crime. Despite the defense’s efforts to refute the charges, the court concluded that the evidence provided was overwhelming and beyond reasonable doubt, leading to the guilty verdict.
The presiding magistrate, while delivering the sentence, emphasized the seriousness of the crimes committed and the impact on the victim, her family, and society at large. The life imprisonment sentence and the additional fine were intended not only as a punishment but also as a stern warning against such violent crimes.
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This landmark ruling sends a powerful message about the justice system’s commitment to combating sexual violence and upholding the rights and dignity of women and girls. It demonstrates that regardless of the status or position of the perpetrators, the law remains steadfast and impartial in delivering justice.
The verdict also serves as a reminder that the military and law enforcement personnel, who are entrusted with the duty of safeguarding citizens, are not above the law and will be held accountable for any criminal activities they engage in. This is particularly significant given that two of the convicted individuals were members of the armed forces, whose roles are to protect and serve the nation.
The case has sparked public debate about the prevalence of gender-based violence in the country and the measures needed to address it. Women’s rights organizations and activists have applauded the court’s decision, viewing it as a crucial step toward ensuring that perpetrators of sexual violence face the full force of the law. They hope this ruling will serve as a deterrent to others and encourage more victims to come forward and report such offenses.
This case has further highlighted the need for continued efforts in raising awareness, promoting gender equality, and implementing policies that protect women and girls from all forms of violence. The government, in collaboration with civil society organizations, is being urged to strengthen legal frameworks, support survivors, and ensure that justice is accessible and effective for all citizens.
