Tanzania’s police force have sought to allay fears of a possible terrorist attack in key areas frequented by American citizens and westerners, mainly the commercial capital Dar es Salaam. The assurance came after the United States embassy in Dar es Salaam issued a security alert warning American citizens and other westerners of a possible terrorist attack in Tanzania, mainly in the commercial city of Dar es Salaam. The alert stated that “terrorist groups could attack with little or no warning, targeting hotels, embassies, restaurants, malls and markets, police stations, places of worship, and other places frequented by Westerners.”
In response to the alert, Tanzania Police Force Spokesman David Misime told The EastAfrican that police were informed of the US security alert and had assigned investigation officers who are now on duty to determine the security situation in key areas which the US alert had mentioned. He further stated that the police force has been carrying out security awareness campaigns in public areas and most frequented places including schools, places of worship, markets and key gathering areas, aiming to attract informers in case of any terror or security risk.
Misime sought to reassure the public that there is no immediate threat and that the police are cooperating with people from various disciplines to control possible crimes through the exchange of information. He also acknowledged that The US Embassy in Dar es Salaam has been issuing security alert messages, warning its citizens and other westerners residing or visiting Tanzania.
In the past, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation had summoned the former acting US ambassador to Tanzania, Dr. Inmi Patterson, for clarification over security issues posted on the embassy’s website and social media platforms. The US embassy had also posted travel advisories warning over the Covid-19 pandemic in Tanzania. However, the police have reassured that they are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors in the country
