In a special operation conducted between Dar es Salaam and Iringa, the Tanzania Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA) has arrested seven international drug traffickers, commonly referred to as 'kingpins.' The operation resulted in the confiscation of a total of 3,182 kilograms of heroin and methamphetamine, potentially saving the lives of over 76 million people within and beyond Tanzania.
Addressing the media in Dar es Salaam on December 27, 2023, Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo revealed that among the seized substances, 2,180.29 kilograms were methamphetamine, a highly dangerous drug known for its detrimental effects on the brain and memory loss. He expressed gratitude to President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for facilitating the successful execution of their duties, emphasizing the severe consequences if these drugs, comparable to cocaine, had reached the streets and affected millions of lives.
Commissioner Lyimo highlighted the unprecedented nature of this drug bust in Tanzanian history, emphasizing that the arrested suspects were part of significant international drug networks under global surveillance. The seized narcotics, including 2,180.29 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1,001.71 kilograms of heroin, were captured in districts such as Kigamboni, Ubungo, and Kinondoni in Dar es Salaam, as well as Iringa in the Iringa region.
Furthermore, the confiscated drugs were cleverly concealed in packaging resembling tea and coffee leaves, a method employed to facilitate discreet transportation and avoid detection.
In a stern warning, Commissioner General Lyimo cautioned individuals involved in the illicit drug trade in Tanzania, urging them to engage in legal businesses. The DCEA reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating this trade through targeted operations across various regions in the country.
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