Joseph Isangura
Tanzania has intensified its campaign against illegal drugs after a series of coordinated security operations led to major seizures and dozens of arrests across the country, authorities have said.
During operations conducted toward the end of December 2025, law enforcement officers intercepted nearly 9.7 tonnes of illicit drugs and confiscated several vehicles believed to have been used in the trade. In total, 11 motorcycles and three cars were seized, while 66 suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in drug trafficking and distribution networks.
The operations covered a wide geographical area, spanning Mwanza, Shinyanga, Morogoro, Tanga, Lindi, Kilimanjaro, Njombe, Kigoma, and Arusha regions. Officials said the scale and spread of the crackdown reflect the increasingly complex nature of the drug trade, which often relies on regional routes and informal transport systems to move narcotics.
According to authorities, the seized substances included heroin, skunk, cannabis, and khat. Cannabis accounted for the largest share of the haul, underscoring its continued prevalence in the illegal market. In addition to seizures, officers destroyed 14 acres of cannabis farms, targeting production points in an effort to cut supply at its source.
Law enforcement officials said the latest operations are part of a broader national strategy aimed at dismantling criminal networks, limiting access to drugs, and protecting communities from the social and economic harm associated with narcotics. They noted that the illegal drug trade remains a global challenge, with criminal groups constantly changing tactics to evade detection.
Motorcycles and small vehicles, which were among the items seized, are commonly used to transport drugs quickly between rural areas and urban centers. Authorities said removing these assets from circulation is a key step in disrupting supply chains and discouraging repeat offenses.
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Beyond enforcement, officials acknowledged that drug control efforts must also address the wider social impact of drug abuse. Health experts warn that the availability of narcotics contributes to addiction, family breakdown, rising crime, and increased pressure on public health services, particularly among young people.
The destruction of cannabis farms also highlights ongoing challenges in rural areas, where some farmers turn to illegal cultivation due to economic hardship. Authorities said long-term success will require a balanced approach that combines law enforcement with public education and alternative livelihood initiatives.
Investigations into the arrested suspects are still ongoing, and officials indicated that further arrests are possible as intelligence gathered during the operations continues to be analyzed. They stressed that anyone found to be involved in the trade, regardless of location or influence, will face legal action.
The crackdown reinforces Tanzania’s commitment to combating drug trafficking in line with regional and international efforts. Authorities have called on the public to support the fight by sharing information and reporting suspicious activities, saying community cooperation remains essential to reducing the impact of illegal drugs and improving public safety nationwide.
