MWE Correspondent
Authorities in Kagera Region have stepped up efforts to curb irregular migration, arresting more than 200 people for entering and living in the country without valid documents.
The arrests were carried out during a three-day special operation between August 20 and 22, according to Regional Immigration Officer Assistant Commissioner Petro Malima.
Malima explained that the operation targeted several districts along Tanzania’s western frontier, which borders Burundi, Uganda, and Rwanda. In Muleba District, officers detained 158 people—154 from Burundi and four from Uganda. Another 30 Burundians were caught in Kyerwa District, while in Biharamulo District, 63 individuals were found to be residing illegally.
The official noted that this was not an isolated crackdown. Just last month, immigration officers in Kagera arrested more than 2,200 foreign nationals during a wide-ranging sweep. Out of these, over 2,000 were deported, while dozens were charged in court for breaching Tanzania’s immigration laws. Those apprehended included nationals from Burundi, Uganda, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Sudan, as well as migrants from as far as Pakistan and India. Several Tanzanians were also taken into custody for allegedly assisting illegal residents.
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Commissioner Malima issued a stern warning to local residents against sheltering or supporting undocumented migrants. “Anyone who facilitates or hides those without valid permits will face legal action,” he said. He also appealed to communities living in border areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities by reporting cases of suspicious movement.
Officials stressed that while cross-border trade is a lifeline for many families in Kagera, it must take place in compliance with immigration regulations. Legal and regulated movement, Malima noted, is the only way to ensure security and sustain good relations with neighboring states.
The Kagera region, situated in the far northwest of Tanzania, is a busy entry point for people moving across East Africa. Its location—bordering three countries—makes it a frequent route for both legal traders and undocumented migrants. Tanzanian immigration authorities have long emphasized that strict enforcement is necessary to protect national security and promote orderly movement.
The latest operation reflects a broader push by the government to strengthen border management amid increasing pressure from irregular migration in the Great Lakes region.
