Finally, four suspects in Tanzania’s landmark gang-rape case arraigned in court
What you need to know:
- Due to security concerns and ongoing judicial proceedings, the court has granted a request from the prosecution to deny bail to the suspects. They will remain in custody throughout the trial.
Dodoma. Four suspects in the gang-rape case involving a young woman from Yombo Dovya, Dar es Salaam, appeared in court on Monday, August 19, 2024.
They face charges of gang rape and sexual assault.
The defendants — Clinton Honest Damas who is famously known as Nyundo, Lord Lema (famously known as Kindamba), Nickson Idala Jackson (famously known as Machuche) and Praygod Edwin Mushi — appeared before Magistrate Zabibu Mpangula at the Dodoma Resident Magistrate’s Court.
All four have pleaded not guilty to the charges. The case was conducted in camera but the Assistant Director at the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP), Renatus Mkude, addressed the media soon after the court proceedings.
He confirmed that, due to the case’s high-profile nature, the suspects will remain in custody as the case is not bailable.
Mkude said the trial would proceed continuously from August 20 to August 23, 2024, to ensure a swift resolution given the widespread public interest in the case.
To protect the victim’s identity, she has been referred to only as XY in court documents. This measure aims to safeguard her privacy and prevent further trauma.
“According to our legal framework and the authority of the Director of Public Prosecutions under Article 59 of the Constitution, appropriate actions have been taken. The case has been thoroughly investigated, and the four suspects are now formally charged,” Mkude said.
“The charges against them include gang rape and sexual assault. They have denied the allegations, but we will proceed with the legal process as required,” he added.
Mr Mkude highlighted the importance of protecting the victim, noting that her real name was not disclosed to avoid any potential humiliation. This approach is in line with international standards for witness protection.
Due to security concerns and ongoing judicial proceedings, the court has granted a request from the prosecution to deny bail to the suspects. They will remain in custody throughout the trial.
The court will hear the case continuously from tomorrow until Friday, August 23, to ensure timely justice and address all aspects of the case.
“We urge the public to remain patient and trust in the legal process. Our justice system provides for the rights of both the accused and the victims. As the case proceeds, we ask everyone to stay calm and believe that justice will be served,” Mkude said.
The suspects were escorted to court at around 3:25pm under heavy police protection, with armed officers and a convoy of more than six vehicles.
Clinton Damas, also known as Nyundo, was closely guarded by two armed officers, with additional security provided by over ten more officers, some in uniform and others in plain clothes.
