TABORA, Tazania – An 18-year-old in western Tanzania has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a child by forcing his private part into said child’s mouth, with police saying the suspect claims he acted under instructions linked to superstition and promises of success in the film industry.
Police in Tabora Region are holding Ibrahimu Kitundu, a resident of Ipuli ward in Tabora Region, over allegations of committing an indecent assault against a minor in an incident reported on March 22, 2026.
Tabora Regional Police Commander Richard Abwao confirmed the case, stating that it occurred at around 12:00 PM along Nyerere Street in Tabora Municipality.
According to police, the suspect allegedly took the child from his home and led him to a nearby music and film distribution booth located within the same neighborhood. Investigators say the suspect then deceived the child into participating in the act before later releasing him.
What drew attention, police say, was the movement of the suspect with the child. Witnesses who noticed the two together grew suspicious and decided to follow them. They later found the victim inside the booth in a distressed condition, reportedly vomiting, which prompted immediate alarm and intervention.
Authorities say the suspect was apprehended shortly after and taken into custody, where he later admitted to committing the act during interrogation.
But it is the explanation that followed that has widened the scope of the investigation.
Commander Abwao said the suspect claimed he was influenced by a female associate linked to a local acting group identified as Nyanyembe Film. According to the suspect’s account, he had been led to believe that fulfilling certain conditions would open doors for him in the film industry.
Police say those conditions were allegedly given by a traditional healer. The instructions, as described by the suspect, included applying a specific substance, engaging in sexual activity, and forcing a male child into the act in question.
The healer, the suspect claimed, promised that completing these steps would bring success in acting careers and personal relationships.
Investigators say they are now working to verify these claims, including tracing the individuals mentioned and examining any links between the suspect, the acting group, and the alleged healer.
Authorities have pointed to superstition as a key factor in the case, noting ongoing concerns about harmful beliefs being used to justify criminal acts in some communities.
The victim has since been taken for medical attention and is receiving care, while statements from witnesses are being recorded as part of the case file.
Kitundu remains in police custody as legal procedures continue, with officials indicating that additional arrests may follow depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
