Tanzania intensifies fight against rising cybercrime

ZANZIBAR: TANZANIA is set to establish regional cybercrime investigation offices in the 2026/27 financial year as the country strengthens its response to the sharp rise in reported digital offences.

The move comes after reported cybercrime cases reached 1,323 between July 2025 and April 2026, up from 748 cases recorded during the corresponding period in 2024/25.

The planned offices are expected to strengthen the Police Force’s ability to investigate cybercrime and respond to the growing misuse of digital platforms and unauthorised access to data.

Commissioner of Police for Zanzibar Kombo Khamis Kombo, said the rise in technologyrelated crime required Police Information Officers to improve their technical knowledge and work closely with other units in addressing emerging security threats.

“Technological changes come with new criminal challenges, including cybercrime, which is currently escalating in our country. Consequently, you have a vital role and responsibility to prepare yourselves and collaborate with all Police Force commissions on how to curb cybercrime,” CP Kombo said.

He was speaking yesterday when he officially opened a three-day capacity-building workshop for Police Information Officers from Police Headquarters, regional divisions, specialised units and police training colleges at the Tanzania Police School (TPS) in Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region.

Delivering the directives on behalf of the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Camillus Wambura, CP Kombo said technological advancement was changing the nature of crime, requiring Police Information Officers to understand new forms of criminal activity and help the public respond to them.

“You must expand your technical knowledge and understand the changing nature of crime brought about by technological advancement. This will enable you to educate the public effectively and work with other units in addressing cybercrime,” he said.

The planned regional offices will complement other measures being taken to address digital crimes, including interventions by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).

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During the 2025/26 financial year, TCRA blocked 39,117 fraudulent phone numbers through the 15040 short codes, restricted 6,118 illicit domains and applications and took down 7,311 non-compliant social media accounts.

CP Kombo also directed Information Officers to work closely with regional police commanders and respond promptly to public concerns, particularly reports circulating on social media concerning the Police Force.

“Do not allow negative reports on social media to go unanswered when they touch upon the Police Force. Ensure the public receives accurate, detailed information quickly and on time,” he said.

He further directed the officers to strengthen cooperation with the Community Policing Commission in educating and engaging the public, particularly as the country approaches 20 years of implementing community policing.

CP Kombo also called for sustained cooperation between the Police Force and journalists across the country, describing the media as an important partner in disseminating public safety information.

He reminded the officers to observe police communication protocols when handling investigative and intelligence matters to avoid compromising ongoing operations or national security.

The workshop aims to equip Police Information Officers with skills to strengthen public awareness on security matters and enable citizens to participate effectively in national development towards the National Development Vision 2050.

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