MWE Correspondent
Authorities in Chunya District have quietly stepped up security measures ahead of December 9, a date police believe could attract unrest, prompting tighter rules on fuel sales and closer monitoring of transport operators.
District Police Commander SSP Nestory John said the move is a precaution, not a crackdown, but reflects growing concern that fuel could be stockpiled or misused if demonstrations take place. Under the new directive, fuel sellers are being told not to sell more than one litre of petrol at a time to motorcycle taxi riders—better known as bodaboda, a group that forms a large part of daily transport in Tanzania and across East Africa.
Speaking to journalists, SSP John emphasized that the success of the new measures will depend on cooperation between residents, fuel businesses and security agencies. He insisted that the aim is to prevent potential disturbances, not to interfere with ordinary livelihoods. According to him, intelligence reports suggest that a small group may be mobilizing for protests on December 9, prompting authorities to act early rather than respond after incidents occur.
One of the concerns raised by police is the informal sale of fuel through plastic containers and jerrycans, a practice that makes tracking purchases more difficult and can pose both safety and security risks.
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SSP John warned that those running unregulated roadside fuel sales will now be closely watched to ensure the product is not being diverted for harmful purposes.
To strengthen surveillance, fuel station owners have been instructed to install CCTV cameras across their premises. Police say security cameras will help identify suspicious movements and speed up investigations should any incidents take place, reflecting a growing global reliance on digital monitoring systems.
In addition to fuel sellers, the district police have met with bodaboda owners and operators to address safety concerns and identify individuals who might take advantage of the situation. Riders have also been encouraged to wear reflector vests displaying their names and phone numbers—an effort aimed at improving accountability and helping authorities trace suspects more easily. High-visibility safety gear has long been linked to transport safety standards, and its importance is referenced in broader discussions surrounding road safety.
Although police have not revealed details about the alleged group behind the rumored protests, the message from authorities remains clear: stay alert but calm. SSP John urged the public to report unusual activity and assured residents that the measures are temporary and focused purely on protecting people and property.
