Tanzanian police have announced the arrest of a Kenyan–U.S. dual citizen at the Sirari border after he allegedly attempted to enter the country with explosive materials.
In a statement released late Sunday, authorities identified the suspect as a 30-year-old man who holds both Kenyan and U.S. citizenship and serves as a sergeant in the United States military.
Police in the Tarime-Rorya region conducted the arrest on Sunday, November 16, at around midday, after discovering four CS M68 hand grenades in his possession as he crossed into Tanzania from Kenya in a Toyota Land Cruiser.
Tanzania Arrests Kenyan Serving in U.S. Army Over Possession of Four Hand Grenades.Photo: Courtesy.
Police say investigations are underway, and the suspect is currently being interrogated as authorities work to determine the motive and take appropriate legal action.
The arrest comes at a time of heightened security tensions in Tanzania, which intensified during and after the October 29 general elections.
President Samia Suluhu secured a reported 98 per cent of the vote, sparking widespread demonstrations after the country’s top two opposition contenders were barred from the presidential race.
Human rights groups report that the post-election unrest led to the deaths of hundreds of people, including foreigners.
Amid the turmoil, large numbers of Tanzanians were arrested, eroding public confidence in the country’s law enforcement.
