By Fabian Leonard
Authorities in Arusha and Kilimanjaro regions have intensified crackdowns on drug trafficking, leading to major arrests and destruction of large-scale marijuana fields.
A recent security operation targeting illegal border crossings or “panya routes’’ in Kiswahili, in Longido District, Arusha region, led to the arrest of two individuals — one identified as a notorious drug smuggler and the other, a long-time wanted major trafficker.
The Chairman of the District Security Committee, Mr Salimu Kali, who is also the District Commissioner (DC), confirmed the arrests adding, the suspects would be arraigned shortly. He did not mention their names as investigations were still ongoing.
Mr Kali credited the operation to community cooperation, noting that security measures had been heightened throughout the district. He stressed that the fight against drug trafficking in his district was part of broader national efforts to combat the use and sell of narcotic drugs that have exerted a heavy addiction toll, especially among the youth — the country’s vital workforce.
Meanwhile, in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), working with other government security agencies, carried out an operation recently that saw the destruction of 286 acres of marijuana with seven suspected kingpins nabbed in swoops.
Among them was an alleged drug baroness, Interindwa Zinywangwa Kirumbi, nicknamed “Mama Dangote,” apparently for floating in cash comparable to Africa’s richest person, Nigerian Billionaire, Aliko Dangote.
According to DCEA Commissioner General, Aretas Lyimo, Ms Kirumbi has been an extremely elusive drug queen, allegedly orchestrating the production and distribution of marijuana for more than three decades.
“Despite being fully aware of the illegality of her actions, she continued to run an extensive drug trafficking network,” alleged Commissioner General Lyimo.
DCEA has urged the public to report any information related to the cultivation of narcotic plants, their trafficking and general drug usage, reaffirming the government’s commitment to eliminate narcotics and ensuring a safe and prosperous Tanzania.
