Inspector General of Police (IGP) Camilius Wambura. Photo courtesy
The police force plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order, safeguarding citizens' rights, and ensuring justice is upheld. Recently, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Camilius Wambura addressed concerns regarding allegations of abductions involving police personnel.
He clarified that these accusations primarily stem from breaches of the laws that govern the arrest of suspects and the conduct of investigations. IGP Wambura highlighted that non-compliance with the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) of 2022 and the Police General Orders (PGO) contributes to public confusion, blurring the lines between legitimate police activities and actions carried out by unidentified individuals.
The law explicitly requires suspects to be arrested per set protocols, yet instances of officers conducting 'ninja-style' arrests—where they do not identify themselves or state the reasons for the arrest—are common. Furthermore, suspects are often held beyond the 24-hour legal limit without being presented in court, with police sometimes denying holding them when inquired by relatives.
A notable case involves Kombo Mbwana, a member of the opposition party Chadema in Handeni, Tanga. He was taken by unknown individuals and disappeared for 29 days, during which time the police issued a missing person report. Eventually, the police admitted to holding him, revealing significant gaps in procedure and transparency.
Such practices pose a significant risk, as they could lead to public distrust and potential violence against police officers, mistaken for criminal gangs engaging in abductions under the guise of police authority. IGP Wambura has asserted that the police force is not involved in abductions or the disappearance of individuals, emphasizing their role in protecting law-abiding citizens and their property.
However, his statements suggest a deeper issue, as demonstrated in the case of Kombo, where the arrest did not adhere to legal standards, human rights, or professional ethics. Wambura's mention of children being abducted for ransom reflects a different concern, which does not address the issue of unexplained detentions or disappearances allegedly involving police officers.
For the public to trust the police force, it must operate transparently and within the bounds of the law. This includes presenting suspects in court within 24 hours, as mandated by CPA Section 32(1), and ensuring fair treatment per Tanzania's Constitution, Article 13(5)(b), which presumes innocence until proven guilty.
Other countries have successfully reformed their police forces to enhance accountability and build public trust. For example, in countries like Norway and New Zealand, the police forces are known for their transparency, accountability, and community engagement. In Norway, the police force operates under strict guidelines that prioritize de-escalation and respect for human rights, leading to high levels of public trust. Similarly, New Zealand's police have implemented community policing strategies, fostering a partnership approach with citizens that enhances both trust and effectiveness in crime prevention.
In Tanzania, recent critiques from the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance (THBUB) have highlighted issues of police brutality, including the mistreatment of detainees and denial of bail. The Justice Commission has also pointed out that the presence of multiple law enforcement agencies with detention facilities can contribute to the disappearance of detainees, complicating accountability.
For the Tanzanian police to regain public trust, it is essential that they strictly adhere to legal standards and ethical practices. The IGP's leadership must focus on ensuring that arrests and detentions are conducted lawfully and that any unlawful actions by officers are promptly addressed. This commitment to professionalism and legal compliance will help distinguish the police from any criminal elements and reassure the public of their integrity and dedication to justice.
