Tanzania police extend surveillance across Dar es Salaam to counter element of surprise

Dar es Salaam. In an effort to counter any potential surprises, Tanzanian police extended their surveillance operations across the entire city of Dar es Salaam on Monday, September 23, 2024, well beyond the anticipated protest zones in Kariakoo and Mnazi Mmoja.

While the main opposition party, Chadema, had planned demonstrations in Kariakoo and Mnazi Mmoja, police broadened their surveillance to encompass the entire city.

This proactive approach aimed to prevent any unexpected protests from spreading or gaining momentum in other areas.

Police officers were visible at numerous traffic lights, junctions, and strategic entry points throughout the city.

Private vehicles, especially those carrying multiple passengers, were subjected to stringent checks.

This heightened security presence contributed to a cautious atmosphere, even among residents who had no intention of participating in the protests.

Despite the heavy police presence, normal activities continued in most parts of Dar es Salaam.

Businesses remained open, and traffic flowed moderately.

While there were no immediate reports of arrests or confrontations, the mood in the city was palpably cautious.

The decision to extend surveillance citywide seemed to be a calculated move to prevent any attempts by protest organizers to regroup or launch demonstrations from alternate locations.

By establishing a visible presence across Dar es Salaam, police sought to preemptively neutralize any potential threats.

Dar es Salaam Special Zones Police Commander, Jumanne Muliro, had previously emphasized the need for law and order, particularly in response to unauthorized demonstrations.

His statements reflected the government's stance that any threat to public peace, whether at the center of planned protests or in less monitored areas, would be swiftly and decisively countered.

The operations and surveillance seen on Monday went beyond merely responding to protest activities; they represented a comprehensive effort to ensure stability across all parts of Dar es Salaam.

By covering a wide expanse of the city, police made it clear that their aim was not just to handle the known protest zones but to anticipate and nullify any element of surprise that could arise from the fluid nature of protest movements.