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Tanzania Police detain two officers over civilian shooting in Dodoma
Dodoma Regional Police Commander, Gallus Hyera
What you need to know:
- Investigations started immediately, with statements taken from witnesses. The commander assured that action would be taken based on evidence and in accordance with the law.
Dodoma. A resident of Mgomwa hamlet in Matumbulu ward, Frank Sanga, 32, has died after being shot by police officers on patrol. The incident occurred when he attempted to assist his brother, who had been arrested on traffic offences, to avoid being taken to the police station.
The shooting happened on July 19, 2025, at around 1:30pm in Matumbulu, Dodoma. Frank sustained gunshot wounds to his left thigh and ankle and later died while receiving treatment in hospital.
Dodoma Regional Police Commander, Gallus Hyera, confirmed the incident in a phone interview with The Citizen’s sister publication, Mwananchi on July 21. He said two police officers were being held for questioning but did not disclose their names.
According to Mr Hyera, the officers had arrested a motorcyclist for traffic violations, including riding without a licence, not wearing a helmet and using a defective motorcycle. The arrested man contacted his relatives, who arrived at the scene and tried to forcibly seize the motorcycle to prevent its confiscation.
“The group arrived on five motorcycles, each carrying more than two people, and demanded the release of the motorcycle and their relative. The officers were forced to open fire as the group appeared ready to confront them. Frank Sanga was shot in the left thigh and ankle and rushed to hospital, where he later died,” said Commander Hyera.
Investigations started immediately, with statements taken from witnesses. The commander assured that action would be taken based on evidence and in accordance with the law.
He warned residents against attacking police officers, noting that officers carry firearms legally to maintain peace and protect themselves.
“I urge the public in Dodoma to stop attacking officers, whether in uniform or plain clothes, especially when they are armed, to prevent tragic incidents like this,” said Commander Hyera.
He also denied claims that Frank was herding cattle at the time of the shooting, clarifying that he was part of a group called by his arrested brother and was at the forefront of the confrontation, holding a stick.
Family reaction
David Sanga, Frank’s younger brother, said they rushed to the scene after receiving a call from their relative, who was arrested for transporting charcoal without a licence. They intended to arrange bail.
“They told us the officers wanted Sh100,000 to release him, even though he had a valid permit for transporting the charcoal,” David said.
During an argument with police, Frank, holding a stick, tried to retrieve a handcart. An officer, seeing him approach, fired three shots, one into the air and two that hit Frank’s left leg.
“The officers stopped us from helping him and warned anyone who approached would be shot. We waited for about 30 minutes before they left. We then took Frank to hospital but later received news of his death,” said David.
Noah Zakayo, chairman of Mgomwa hamlet, confirmed the shooting and death, saying doctors confirmed gunshot wounds.
Frank’s mother, who preferred to remain anonymous, said she received calls informing her of the shooting and later his death.
“He was my main support, especially as his father is ill and I am disabled. He left behind four children. I ask the government to help care for them,” she said.
