Tanzania nabs 126 illegal immigrants in Geita

GEITA: THE Immigration Department in Geita Region has arrested 126 illegal immigrants from Burundi who were found living and working in the country without legal documentation.

According to Senior Assistant Commissioner of Immigration in Geita Region, James Mwanjotile, the individuals were apprehended in various locations in and around Geita town during the month of July 2025. He said all the suspects are currently in custody, and procedures for their repatriation are ongoing.

“This is part of a continuous operation to control illegal immigration in the country. In the last quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, we arrested and repatriated 593 illegal immigrants,” said Mwanjotile.

He noted that the rise in illegal immigration is largely driven by economic opportunities in Geita Region, particularly in the mining, agriculture, and livestock sectors. He added that many immigrants come to work for low wages, which intensifies competition for jobs and poses security risks to the country.

“There are many security, economic, and social implications. We don’t always know the real purpose behind their entry. We’re competing with them for jobs, and there’s also the risk of them entering the education system unlawfully,” he added.

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Mwanjotile also issued a strong warning, stating that anyone found aiding or sheltering illegal immigrants will face strict legal action and will be held financially responsible for their repatriation.

One of the arrested immigrants, Sanzamahoro Richard, said he came to Tanzania due to the difficult living conditions in Burundi. He reported living in the Mwatulole neighborhood and earning a living by selling eggs.

Another, Ndagijimana Erodi, said he had been selling fries at the Geita town bus terminal to support himself economically. Meanwhile, Bizimana Gerald stated that he came to Geita seeking a better life but is now ready to return to Burundi, as he has no other option and is complying with the Immigration Department’s directives.

The Immigration Department emphasized that it will continue working closely with other security and law enforcement agencies to identify and take action against illegal immigrants, while prioritizing national security.