Court adjourns Serengeti murder case over ongoing investigations

Suspects in the Rhoda Mobe murder case enter Musoma Resident Magistrate’s Court for a case mention. PHOTO | Beldina Nyakeke

What you need to know:

  • Rhoda, a farmer and resident of Burunga Village in Serengeti District, Mara Region, is alleged to have been murdered on October 23, 2025, at night after being attacked at her home in the village.

Musoma. The Musoma Resident Magistrate’s Court has adjourned a murder case involving three suspects accused of killing a Serengeti resident, pending further investigations.

The accused Simon Ruhinda (55), a clerk at the Serengeti District Council’s Executive Director’s Office, Marco Maginga (45), a primary school teacher in Mbeya City, and Mwita Maginga (47), a farmer from Tarime are charged with the murder of Rhoda Mobe (42).

Presiding over the case on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, Senior Resident Magistrate Eugenia Rujwahuka said investigations were still ongoing and involved complex elements, including cybercrime.

“This matter requires in-depth investigation, including cyber-related aspects. The case is therefore adjourned to April 13 for further mention,” she said.

Earlier, State Attorney Joyce Matimbwi told the court that investigations were incomplete and requested a new date.

“All three accused persons are present, and investigations are ongoing. We request another date for mention,” she said.

Speaking after the adjournment, case observer Linus Amri emphasised the importance of thorough investigations, noting that the case had drawn public attention due to the brutality of the incident.

“It is important that investigations are completed to ensure justice for all parties. Solid evidence is necessary to either convict or acquit the accused beyond doubt,” he said.

The court heard that the three suspects allegedly attacked and killed Ms Mobe at her home in Burunga Village, Serengeti District, Mara Region, on the night of October 23, 2025. They are accused of hacking her with machetes, causing fatal injuries.

The accused have been charged under Sections 196 and 197 of the Penal Code. They remain in custody without bail, as the offence is beyond the jurisdiction of the Resident Magistrate’s Court.