DAR ES SALAAM: The use of advanced surveillance technology in the 23tril/- Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project has led to the arrest of individuals involved in infrastructure vandalism.
The government has issued a stern warning to those vandalizing infrastructure, emphasizing that no offender will escape justice with the technology in place.
“We have observed acts of sabotage targeting our railway infrastructure, and arrests have already begun. Let me be clear: this government, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, will not tolerate any form of vandalism against such a significant national investment,” stated Government Spokesperson Mr Gerson Msigwa while speaking to journalists in Dar es Salaam on Thursday.
Mr. Msigwa reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the railway, warning of severe consequences for anyone attempting to tamper with the infrastructure.
“Do not deceive yourself into thinking you can sabotage the SGR and remain safe. We are monitoring everyone who approaches the railway and will apprehend anyone involved in such acts. Our systems are robust, and no one will evade justice,” he said.
He revealed that the government has photographic evidence of all suspects and is actively pursuing them.
“All individuals who have tampered with the infrastructure have been identified through our advanced surveillance. Our systems ensure that such crimes do not go unnoticed,” he added.
Mr. Msigwa urged citizens to take an active role in protecting the SGR, reminding them that it is funded by taxpayer money meant to improve public services.
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“This railway is a product of the sacrifices made by every Tanzanian. It is unacceptable for anyone to destroy it. I urge all citizens to act as protectors of this infrastructure. While we will apprehend offenders, the damage caused before their arrest is a loss to the nation,” he explained.
He called for collective vigilance, encouraging citizens to report any suspicious activity around the railway.
“When someone tampers with this infrastructure, it’s as if they are damaging your own property. Do not turn a blind eye; report such acts immediately,” he urged.
The crackdown on SGR vandalism has so far led to the arrest of 20 individuals, with suspects being arraigned in courts across the country.
On Tuesday, 16 suspects appeared in the Kibaha Resident Magistrate Court in the Coast Region, Kinondoni Resident Magistrate Court in Dar es Salaam, and Dodoma District Court. On Wednesday, four additional suspects were charged at the Mkuranga District Court in the Coast Region.
The suspects face charges of economic sabotage for vandalizing the SGR and Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) infrastructure.
