Police nab 21 linked to stolen crosses from graves, infrastructure vandalism
DODOMA: POLICE in Dodoma Region have arrested 21 individuals for possessing items allegedly obtained through the vandalism of road infrastructure and the theft of crosses from graveyards.
The suspects reportedly intended to sell the illegally acquired items, including crosses, road signs and streetlight poles, as scrap metal.
During a Monday meeting with scrap metal dealers in the region, Dodoma Regional Police Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) George Katabazi, said protecting infrastructure is a shared responsibility and urged public collaboration to address the issue.
He called on scrap metal dealers to assist the police and the government by identifying suspects and reporting any materials they suspect were obtained illegally. The regional police chief stated that eleven of the 21 arrested individuals have already been arraigned.
“We have urged them to refrain from any form of criminal activity and reminded them of their responsibility to help maintain law and order in Dodoma region,” he said.
He further noted that some scrap metal traders have been operating illegally by accepting stolen goods and purchasing them at low prices to generate excessive profits.
“Some items being sold as scrap are clearly not scrap. For instance, intact window frames removed from houses, or items with cement still attached, are being offered as scrap,” the commander pointed out, urging scrap metal dealers to thoroughly verify items before purchasing them.
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He further stated that some dealers have been contributing to the destruction of public infrastructure, including streetlight poles, manhole covers, road signs and even cemetery crosses.
“Removing streetlight poles or manhole covers constitutes the destruction of government property. If you are offered such items, report it immediately so action can be taken. That’s part of how we will eradicate this kind of crime,” he added.
He also explained that following the meeting, several resolutions were made, including encouraging scrap metal dealers to form an association and to take a stand against the destruction of infrastructure by individuals supplying them with illegal scrap materials.
One of the scrap metal dealers in the capital, Mohamed Suleiman called for the recognition of legitimate traders, emphasising that not all operators are involved in illegal activities.
Another dealer, Mr Cosmos Chingule condemned dishonest traders, saying they are damaging the reputation of the entire business.
