MWE Correspondent
The Tanzania Police Force has addressed growing public concern over recent cases of alleged abductions and killings, offering detailed clarification on several high-profile incidents that have made headlines across the country.
In a statement delivered on June 18, 2025, by the Police Spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner David Misime, authorities confirmed that a number of the reported disappearances were not linked to external threats but were instead self-orchestrated.
“Some individuals were found alive and well, while others were unfortunately discovered deceased. However, a significant number staged their own disappearances,” said Misime during a press briefing held at police headquarters in Dar es Salaam.
The police explained that these staged vanishings were carried out for a range of complex motives. These included:
- Romantic jealousy – where partners faked abductions to manipulate loved ones
- Superstition and witchcraft – particularly in rural areas where fear of spiritual retaliation drives individuals into hiding
- Inheritance disputes – family members staging disappearances to avoid contestation or conflict
- Revenge motives or to escape criminal liability
- Migration in search of extremist indoctrination, especially among young men vulnerable to radical ideologies like Salafi jihadism or groups affiliated with ISIS and Al-Shabaab
According to Misime, law enforcement continues to probe unresolved cases and is working closely with intelligence units and community leaders. He called for public cooperation, especially from families, neighbors, and local ward leaders, in identifying people who go missing under suspicious circumstances.
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“Each case has its own context and motivations, which is why we are taking time to verify every report,” he noted.
In addition to the clarifications, Misime issued a stern warning to members of the public and digital content creators spreading false reports online. Under Tanzania’s Cybercrimes Act, 2015, publishing unverified information can lead to prosecution—resulting in up to five years imprisonment or fines exceeding TSh5 million.
He urged journalists, bloggers, and influencers to verify information before sharing, referencing Section 16 of the Act as key legal backing for the enforcement.
Many families remain uncertain about the legal implications of prolonged disappearances. Misime explained that Section 117 of the Evidence Act and Section 161 of the Law of Marriage Act govern the legal presumption of death in Tanzania. According to these provisions, a person can only be presumed dead after five consecutive years of unexplained absence, and only upon presentation of compelling evidence to a court of law.
The Police Force says it will continue sharing verified updates with the public as part of its commitment to transparency and community safety. Citizens are being encouraged to report disappearances promptly and provide relevant details through local police stations or the official Tanzania Police mobile app.
