Bandits ambush bus near refugee camp, four injured

Kigoma. Armed men suspected to be bandits staged a late-night ambush on an intercity passenger bus near the Nduta Refugee Camp in Kibondo District, injuring four passengers and stealing money, mobile phones and luggage.

The attack occurred around 10pm on Friday night at Kibaoni, along the Kasulu–Kakonko highway, as the bus, a property of Adventure Company Ltd, was travelling from Kigoma to Mwanza. Another private vehicle was also intercepted during the robbery.

Confirming the incident, Kibondo District Commissioner Col Agrey Magwaza, who also chairs the District Defence and Security Committee, said five armed individuals used barricades to block the road and stop vehicles.

“They fired shots into the air to create panic, then proceeded to rob passengers of their belongings. Four people were assaulted with batons and sustained minor injuries. They were treated at the Nduta Refugee Camp health facility and later discharged,” he said.

Col Magwaza noted that while there were no fatalities, passengers lost valuables including cash, phones and clothing. “Reports indicate that the private vehicle may have had about Sh3.5 million stolen, but we are yet to establish the total value of items lost, as all passengers were affected differently.”

The incident has heightened security concerns in the area, especially given its proximity to the refugee camp and ongoing roadworks at the site of the ambush.

Kigoma Regional Police Commander ACP Filemon Makungu confirmed the attack, stating that the Adventure bus and a Toyota Kluger were both targeted.

“Our officers from Nduta responded swiftly and stabilised the situation,” ACP Makungu said. “Contrary to rumours circulating online, no passengers were shot or killed. We urge the public to remain calm. Security patrols have been intensified.”

The incident came just a day after Kigoma Regional Commissioner Amb. Simon Sirro concluded a week-long security tour of the region. During his visit, he reiterated the government’s commitment to curbing crime.

“I know Kigoma very well. I led Operation Kimbunga here for six months and am familiar with every village and the criminal routes. That experience gives me the foundation to tackle crime decisively,” he said.

Authorities have vowed to continue investigations and tighten patrols along key routes in the region, especially those near refugee settlements and forested areas that can provide cover for criminal activity.