Police detain prison officer over death of citizen amid political clash in Singida
What you need to know:
- The police commander confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing, with efforts to apprehend all those responsible for the violence.
Dodoma. Singida Regional Police have detained a prison officer in connection with the death of one person during an altercation between supporters of the ruling CCM party and the opposition party Chadema.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, by Singida Regional Police Commander Amon Kakwale, the incident occurred on the night of November 26, 2024, at around 11:00 p.m. in the Stendi neighbourhood, Mkwese Ward, in the Manyoni District of Singida.
Mr Kakwale stated that the violence erupted after CCM supporters, who were attending an internal meeting at a private house, were ambushed by Chadema supporters.
The confrontation took place near a local prison, where prison officers were alerted about the disturbance.
“The officers were called to assess the situation, and upon arrival, they began being attacked with stones. This prompted them to fire warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and protect themselves,” said Commander Kakwale.
During the ensuing chaos, a single bullet struck and injured George Juma, 41, a Chadema candidate for the Stendi Ward. He later succumbed to the injuries.
The police commander confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing, with efforts to apprehend all those responsible for the violence.
He urged the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and encouraged citizens to peacefully participate in the ongoing elections and choose their leaders in a calm and orderly manner.
“The police are committed to ensuring security during the voting process and the announcement of results for the newly elected leaders,” he added.
The incident has drawn attention to the ongoing political tensions in the region as voters head to the polls.
