Authorities in Tanzania have moved to calm public panic after widespread rumors claiming that men’s private parts were being “snatched” through physical contact triggered violence in multiple regions.
Police say the claims are not real and are rooted in superstition and misinformation, but the fallout has already turned deadly.
According to police in Songwe Region, at least four people have been killed after being attacked by angry residents who believed they were responsible for the alleged incidents. Several others were injured and are receiving treatment.
Songwe Regional Police Commander Augustino Senga said investigations show many of those assaulted or killed had no connection to any such acts.
Speaking to residents in Tunduma, Senga said the rumours had created unnecessary fear, stressing that there is no evidence of organised crimes involving the disappearance of body parts. He added that some victims were targeted simply on suspicion driven by panic.
Police also addressed circulating claims that victims had their private parts removed through touch, including allegations involving shoulders. Authorities said such claims are scientifically impossible and have no basis in reality.
In Dar es Salaam, police reported similar incidents, particularly in the Kimara area, where residents attacked individuals based on the same rumours.
Dar es Salaam Special Zone Police Commander Jumanne Muliro said one widely shared claim involving a man allegedly losing his private parts was fabricated. He said the individual later admitted the story was false after questioning.
Muliro warned that misinformation was being deliberately spread to create fear and unrest among the public.
Meanwhile, Ubungo District Commissioner Albert Msando also dismissed the reports, saying there has not been a single verified case of such an incident. He urged residents to ignore unverified information circulating on social media.
Authorities say more than 20 people have been arrested in connection with mob violence, including those accused of spreading false information and those involved in attacks.
Police have urged the public to rely on official sources and avoid sharing rumours, warning that legal action will be taken against individuals found spreading misinformation.
The incidents are believed to have originated from similar rumors reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo before spreading into Tanzania through social media, fueling fear and retaliatory violence in affected communities.
