SUMBAWANGA, Rukwa – Police in Rukwa Region have arrested seven young men in Sumbawanga District following the spread of false claims that their private parts had been stolen, a narrative authorities say fueled public unrest.
Rukwa Regional Police Commander Shadrack Masija said the arrests followed an operation conducted on April 6, 2026, after panic linked to the rumours led to violence and disruption in several areas.
Two of the suspects; Haruni Willium Mengo (24) and Isack Simon Kaniki (19) — were taken to court and convicted, each receiving a six-month prison sentence.
The ruling was delivered on April 8, 2026 by Wiligisi Mbunda at the Primary Court in Kipeta, Sumbawanga.
According to police, the two falsely accused a man, Issa Athuman Kidungwe (56), of stealing their private parts while in Mshani village.
The claim sparked anger among residents, leading to Kidungwe being attacked and beaten, leaving him with serious injuries.
Authorities say the allegations were fabricated and part of a wider spread of misinformation that has caused fear and mob action in different parts of the country.
Police have warned that individuals found spreading such false claims or inciting violence will face legal consequences, as efforts continue to restore calm following the incidents.
