MWE Correspondent
In a significant breakthrough in Tanzania’s anti-smuggling campaign, government authorities have thwarted an attempt to illegally transport diamonds worth more than TSh1.7 billion out of the country via Mwanza Airport.
The country’s Minister for Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, made the announcement on the evening of Friday, May 23, 2025, confirming that the interception had taken place on May 18 following a coordinated sting operation involving national security forces, customs officials, and other government agencies.
A foreign national—whose name has not been publicly released—is currently in custody and is being interrogated in connection with the smuggling attempt. Authorities say the individual will be formally charged after investigations are completed.
“This operation marks a serious warning to those who seek to plunder our mineral wealth,” Mavunde said during the press conference in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania is internationally recognized for its rich mineral resources, particularly gold, tanzanite, and diamonds. The sector contributes significantly to the country’s GDP, employment, and foreign exchange.
Over the past few years, the Tanzanian government has ramped up efforts to prevent the illegal trade of minerals—a move driven in part by the administration of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has emphasized transparency and accountability across all sectors.
In line with this policy, the Ministry of Minerals has introduced stringent procedures, including the requirement that all diamonds and other minerals be verified through official mineral trading centers before being exported.
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The attempted smuggling through Mwanza—Tanzania’s second-largest city and a major transport hub near Lake Victoria—raised alarms among law enforcement officers who quickly mobilized to act on intelligence provided by an internal surveillance team.
“Let this be a reminder that the illegal export of our resources not only harms the economy but also denies Tanzanians the development they deserve,” Mavunde added.
The Minister emphasized that tighter controls have been implemented at all major ports of entry and exit, including international airports, land borders, and seaports, to thwart future smuggling activities.
Investigations into the broader network involved in the attempted diamond theft are still ongoing. Officials say there is a possibility that the operation may be linked to an international syndicate, with more arrests expected in the coming days.
Mavunde reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fighting economic sabotage and protecting Tanzania’s natural wealth. He called on citizens and international stakeholders alike to support efforts to ensure that proceeds from mineral extraction benefit the people.
Tanzania’s mineral industry remains a cornerstone of its long-term development vision, and safeguarding the sector is crucial to sustaining national growth and achieving economic independence.?
