Six Ethiopian Nationals Arrested in Tanzania for Illegal Entry as Immigration Issues Persist

By Adonis Byemelwa

In a recent operation conducted by the police and other security agencies, six Ethiopian nationals were arrested for allegedly entering Tanzania without proper documentation. The Morogoro Regional Police Commander, Alex Mkama, reported that the arrests took place on July 20, 2024, in the Kisisi Forest area of Malolo Village, Kilosa District, Morogoro Region.

"We managed to apprehend the suspects at around 9:00 AM in the Kisisi area, where they were found hiding in Malolo Village, Malolo B Ward. They have since been handed over to the immigration authorities for further action," Commander Mkama stated.

Morogoro Regional Deputy Immigration Officer, Richard Mwasongwe, confirmed the arrests and emphasized the legal consequences for individuals involved in facilitating illegal immigration. He warned citizens against such activities, highlighting the severe penalties outlined in the Immigration Act of 2016, Chapter 54, Section 46 Subsection 1C and 2.

"I urge citizens to refrain from transporting illegal immigrants," Mwasongwe said. "Those caught will face strict legal action, including a fine of TSh 20 million or a 20-year prison sentence. Additionally, any property, including vehicles, used in the process will be confiscated."

This incident is part of a broader issue of illegal immigration facing Tanzania. In the past six months, there have been multiple arrests of illegal immigrants in various regions of the country. Notably, some cases involved V8 vehicles, including those with government registration numbers and the ruling party’s flag, transporting illegal immigrants in the central part of Tanzania. These events highlight ongoing challenges in border security and enforcement, as well as the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies and the public.

Illegal immigration has become a significant concern in Tanzania, with numerous cases reported in various regions. The influx of undocumented individuals poses challenges for the country, including security risks and strains on resources. Tanzanian law takes a firm stance against illegal immigration, emphasizing the need to regulate and monitor entry and residence within the country.

The Immigration Act of 2016 provides the legal framework for handling immigration issues in Tanzania. Under Chapter 54, Section 46, the Act specifies the penalties for illegal entry, harboring, or transporting undocumented individuals. The law mandates a fine of up to TSh 20 million or imprisonment for up to 20 years for those found guilty of facilitating illegal immigration. Furthermore, any assets used in the commission of these crimes, such as vehicles or property, are subject to confiscation.

These stringent measures aim to deter illegal immigration and protect national security. The government, through its immigration and law enforcement agencies, conducts regular operations to identify and detain individuals residing in the country without proper documentation. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure that all foreign nationals comply with Tanzanian immigration laws.

Ethiopia, often cited as a significant source of illegal immigrants in Tanzania, faces a combination of factors that drive its citizens to seek entry into other countries, including Tanzania. Political instability, economic challenges, and conflicts in certain regions of Ethiopia have created conditions that compel people to flee in search of better living conditions and opportunities.

As well, issues such as poverty, unemployment, and limited access to basic services contribute to the migration flow. Many Ethiopians view Tanzania as a transit point or a potential destination for reaching other countries in Southern Africa, where they hope to find safety and economic prospects. This complex situation underscores the need for regional cooperation in addressing the root causes of migration and implementing effective border management and immigration policies.