Government seizes Sh3.4 billion worth of smuggled gold at Dar port, three detained
What you need to know:
- The case is ongoing, and further details will be released once the investigations are complete.
Dar es Salaam. The Minister for Minerals Antony Mavunde said on Wednesday that the government has seized 15.78 kilograms of gold, valued at Sh3.4 billion, at the Dar es Salaam port.
The gold was intercepted while being smuggled from Tanzania mainland to Zanzibar.
During a press briefing earlier on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, Mr Mavunde revealed that three Tanzanians have been detained in connection with the smuggling operation and were currently under police interrogation.
Minister for Minerals Antony Mavunde speaks during a press briefing about Sh3.4 billion gold smuggled at the Dar es Salaam port on September 11, 2024. PHOTO | COURTESY
He indicated that if found guilty, the individuals would face severe penalties, including a lifetime ban from participating in the mineral sector.
He said the gold has been placed under government control.
The mineral sector contributes about nine percent to Tanzania’s GDP but the government now believes its contribution may have surpassed 10 percent well ahead of the planned time. It was earlier planned that the sector’s contribution would rise to 10 percent in 2025.
Highlighting the broader impact, Mr Mavunde called on Tanzanians to recognize the crucial role that revenues from the mineral sector play in supporting social amenities and national development.
The case is ongoing, and further details will be released once the investigations are complete.
