Tanzania:Mass Arrests in Lamadi-Simiyu as Furious Protests Over Child Abductions Turn Deadly

By Adonis Byemelwa

Simiyu: Protests erupted in Lamadi, Simiyu, early on August 21, 2024, as residents voiced outrage over the police’s handling of child abductions in the area. Demonstrators were angered by the authorities' lack of response to the disappearances and deaths of several children.

Reports have emerged suggesting that multiple fatalities occurred when police used live ammunition to disperse the crowd in Busega. However, Busega District Commissioner Faiza Salim has denied any deaths, stating that no such reports have been received during her four-month tenure. She added that no reports of missing children have been reported to her office.

Faiza Salim reported that 108 people have been arrested in connection with the protests, which disrupted local activities for over five hours. The protests escalated with stones thrown at officials, attempts to burn down the police station, and significant property damage. In response, the police deployed tear gas and reinforcements from the regional headquarters to regain control.

“You saw the damage: stones were thrown at me and other officials, and there was an attempt to burn the police station. We had to use tear gas because roads were blocked, infrastructure was destroyed, and shops were vandalized. As authorities, we cannot tolerate this,” Salim said.

While videos of injured protesters and claims of fatalities circulate online, Faiza Salim maintains that only minor injuries have been reported. She promised a comprehensive report after the situation was fully assessed.

Mashimba Songoma, Chairman of Makanisani Hamlet, criticized the lack of response from local officials. “Residents have reported missing children to the police and district authorities, but no action has been taken. That’s why the protests happened—people need answers about these disappearances,” he said.

A Lamadi resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their frustration with the inadequate police response to missing children. “Today, I received a letter from my child’s school advising me to ensure my child’s safety personally. Every few days, a child goes missing, and the police offer no solutions. This is unacceptable,” the resident stated.

Concerns about child safety have been mounting nationwide due to a rise in disappearances and murders, heightening fears among residents across the country.