Police arrest six people in Dodoma for vandalising SGR infrastructure

By Augusta Njoji , The Guardian
Published at 02:38 PM Nov 12 2024
Standard gauge railway (SGR) train
Photo: File
Standard gauge railway (SGR) train

POLICE in Dodoma Region have arrested six people for allegedly damaging and stealing copper wires from the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) infrastructure in Mpwapwa and Bahi districts, Dodoma Region.

Speaking to journalists yesterday here, Dodoma Regional Police Commander (RPC) George Katabazi confirmed the arrests, detailing the incidents.

In Mpwapwa District, two suspects, Said Sempinga (39) and Michael Robert (44), both from Kilosa, were caught for damaging SGR infrastructure.

The incident occurred on October 3, 2024, around 5 p.m. in Msagali Village, where the suspects allegedly cut and stole copper wires from three railway bridges.

“Following the incident, the police received reports and initiated an immediate investigation, working closely with the community,” Katabazi said.

He added: “This led to the timely arrest of the suspects, who were found in possession of the stolen wires. The investigation is still ongoing and legal action will follow.”

In another incident on October 8, this year, four additional suspects were arrested in Bahi District for attempting to sabotage SGR infrastructure.

The suspects, identified as Said Kapambwe (38), Petro Yassi (22), Michael Leyaseki (27) and Issa Misami (42), were arrested at different times in Bahi market.

Commander Katabazi called on the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the police by providing information on criminal activities, especially those targeting critical infrastructure.

“These acts of sabotage are causing major financial losses to the country,” he said.

The investigation into the stolen copper wires and sabotage attempts is ongoing, and authorities are committed to bringing those responsible to justice.