Man shot dead after allegedly robbery attempt at the CRDB branch

MWANZA: A man, estimated to be between 30 and 35 years old, has died after being shot by police following an incident where he entered the CRDB Bank (Rock City Mall branch) in Ilemela District, allegedly attempting to forcibly take money.

Speaking today at his office, Mwanza Regional Police Commander, Mr Wilbroad Mutafungwa, stated that the incident occurred on September 13, 2026, at 1:58 PM, after the man entered the bank posing as a customer.

According to Commander Mutafungwa, the man whose name and place of residence remain unknown was wearing a cap, a long-sleeved shirt, black jeans, and open-toed shoes.

He stated that upon reaching the customer service area, the man asked the attendant for money, claiming he needed funds for food. The attendant explained the procedures for depositing and withdrawing money, but the man persisted in demanding cash.

Sensing danger, the attendant went to seek help from colleagues. However, the man jumped over the counter and headed toward the cash-counting rooms, where he shoved the attendant and forced his way inside with her.  The incident sparked fear and panic among the staff and customers inside the bank.

Commander Mutafungwa stated that the security officers guarding the bank arrived at the scene and ordered the man to surrender; however, he defied the order and engaged the officers in a struggle, attempting to close the distance and seize their weapons.

“The officers realized the man harbored hostile intent, so they decided to neutralize the threat by shooting him,” Mutafungwa said.

He explained that the bullet struck the man’s right side, hitting the area between the waist and the leg, causing a wound that led to severe blood loss. He passed away while being transported to the hospital.

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The deceased’s body has been preserved at the Sekou-Toure Regional Referral Hospital mortuary pending identification and further investigative procedures.

Commander Mutafungwa noted that a search of the deceased revealed a black Samsung mobile phone and 500/-in cash.

The Mwanza Regional Police Force is continuing its investigation into the incident while issuing a stern warning to those involved in criminal activities, emphasizing that it will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone found violating the law.