Dar police arrest 16 suspected 'Mbwa Mwitu' gang members

Police have arrested 16 youths in Ilala, Dar es Salaam alleged to be ‘Mbwa Mwitu’ members accused of murder and terrorising various neighbourhoods in the city.

Ilala Regional Police Commander Marietha Minangi told The Guardian through telephone interview that police were hunting for the other members of the group, which she said comprised 50 youths.

The RPC confirmed that on December 31, last year, the group robbed a Kiwalani resident of 40,000/- and a mobile phone.

According to Minangi, the youths, many of whom are aged around 20 years emerged after the New Year vigil. They use knives, swords and screwdrivers against the victims when committing the crimes. 

She said police captured 14 of the 16 during patrols in Kiwalani Dar es Salaam, while two others were arrested in Handeni, Tanga while trying to escape.

RPC Minangi said Sadick Salum Pambe aged 30 was identified as the leader of the group and was being interrogated by police.

She said two other suspects were beaten to death in Kiwalani by irate members of the public. 

She said police have strengthened patrols and were collaborating with the residents to curb such acts. 

SOURCE: THE GUARDIAN