Tanzania’s police service has issued a stern warning to undocumented foreigners, ordering them to surrender to authorities amid growing political unrest across the country. In a statement released on Sunday, November 2, the police alleged that several foreigners had entered Tanzania illegally and were planning to incite a new wave of protests.
According to the national Police Spokesperson, the foreigners reportedly arrived under the guise of conducting business activities but were instead coordinating demonstrations in major cities including Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, and Songwe.
“These people are pretending to be doing various activities, including bodaboda. Reports say that these people are in the regions of Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, Mwanza, Songwe, and other regions,” the police boss stated.
Citizens hosting undocumented individuals have been warned to report them to nearby police stations immediately. The police further cautioned that anyone found sheltering the foreigners could face strict legal consequences.
“While the Police Force continues to monitor them, any citizen who has hosted or lives with any unknown foreigner should immediately report to local government leaders,” the spokesperson added.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions following Tanzania’s disputed presidential elections, which have sparked violent demonstrations and reports of casualties.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV has joined global leaders in calling for peace in Tanzania. During his Sunday evening address, the pontiff appealed for restraint and urged conflicting parties to embrace dialogue over violence.
“May we also pray for Tanzania, where, following the recent elections, violent clashes have broken out, leaving many victims. I urge everyone to avoid all forms of violence and to follow the path of dialogue,” Pope Leo XIV stated.
Tanzanian authorities have vowed to work closely with the military to maintain order and ensure national stability as protests continue to spread across several regions.
