Tanzanian Father Appeals to President for Help After Son’s Mysterious Abduction

By Adonis Byemelwa

Yusuph Chaula, a 56-year-old resident of Ntokela village in Rungwe District, Mbeya Region, has urgently appealed to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for assistance following the abduction of his son, Shadrack Chaula. This distressing incident has sparked significant concern in the community and among local authorities.

Shadrack Chaula, 24, was taken on August 2, 2024, roughly 20 days after his release from Ruanda Prison in Mbeya. Shadrack had been serving a two-year sentence or a fine of 5 million shillings imposed by Rungwe District Court for defacing a photograph of the President.

 His conviction on July 4, 2024, was for spreading false information on TikTok, a breach of the Cybercrimes Act, Section 16.

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This sentencing followed his conviction on July 4, 2024, for spreading false information on TikTok, violating the Cybercrimes Act, Section 16.

On the morning of August 2, Shadrack was forcibly taken from his business premises by individuals in a black vehicle. This alarming incident has sparked significant concern among locals and prompted calls for heightened security and a thorough investigation.

Mbeya Regional Police Commander Benjamin Kuzaga confirmed that the police are actively investigating the abduction but have yet to provide concrete updates on Shadrack’s whereabouts.

In an emotional appeal, Yusuph Chaula described the distressing details of his son’s abduction. He recounted how Shadrack was forcibly bundled into a black vehicle and driven towards Mbeya City.

 “I urge President Samia Suluhu Hassan to help find my son, whether he is alive or dead. Being abducted is as grievous as being slaughtered,” Chaula pleaded.

Yusuph Chaula has made extensive efforts to locate his son, reaching out to family members, the community, and local hospitals without any substantial results. His plea highlights a sense of desperation as the search for Shadrack continues.

After Shadrack’s release from prison, he received financial support from well-wishers to pay his fine, which allowed him to return to his village. He had expressed gratitude to the Tanzanian public for their help.

 Despite his previous legal issues, Shadrack was a dedicated young man involved in local businesses, including a shop and two car washing locations.

The case has left the family in turmoil, unsure of where to turn next. Chaula’s appeal to the President underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation.

Mbeya Regional Police Commander Benjamin Kuzaga stated that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are exploring the possibility that Shadrack might have been taken to Dar es Salaam after his release, adding complexity to the case.

As the search continues, Yusuph Chaula’s plea for presidential intervention remains a cry for help. The family and the local community hope that President Samia Suluhu Hassan and the authorities will act swiftly to resolve this distressing case and bring Shadrack Chaula home safely.