Police warn rogue bouncers over brutality

MWANZA: THE Police Force in Mwanza Region has warned security personnel in entertainment venues and bars, commonly known as bouncers, against taking the law into their own hands and harm individuals suspected of committing offences within their premises.

The warning was issued yesterday in Mwanza City by the Regional Police Commander (RPC), Mr Wilbrod Mutafungwa, during a stakeholders’ meeting held at his office.

Mr Mutafungwa said actions by such security personnel to assault, injure or otherwise harm suspects constitute criminal offences and are contrary to the laws of the country. He clarified that security managers and bouncers have no legal authority to punish suspects.

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Instead, their role is limited to apprehending individuals and handing them over to the nearest police station for legal action, as law enforcement remains the mandate of the Police Force.

“The Police Force is concerned about acts of brutality occurring in some business premises. Such actions violate the law and infringe on human rights,” he said.

He further urged owners of entertainment venues, bars and hotels to review their security systems and staff performance. Mr Mutafungwa also stressed the importance of promptly reporting incidents of disorder or criminal activity to the police for appropriate action.

Some business operators who attended the meeting agreed to manage their establishments in line with the law. They pledged to exercise caution when hiring security personnel and to ensure their staff perform their duties without conflicting with law enforcement authorities.