Police hunt killers after three found burned to death in car

Handeni. Police in Tanga launched investigation after three people were found dead in a car that was set on fire by unknown assailants.

The shocking incident occured in the Korogwe Fuel Reserve Forest in Sindeni Village, Handeni District of Tanga Region.

One of the victims was burnt to the extent that the face and sex are unidentifiable, Tanga Regional Police Commander Almachius Mchunguzi told reporters on Tuesday, September 24, 2024.

He said that the incident occurred the previous night at around 9pm. Efforts are currently underway to track down those responsible.

“We received a report of a car being on fire, inside the Korogwe Fuel Reserve Forest and police officers were dispatched immediately. Upon arrival, they found a Toyota IST in flames. Two charred bodies were discovered beside the vehicle,” said Mr Mchunguzi.

According to him, a third severely burned body was found in the back seat of the car, though its sex could not be determined.

The police, working in collaboration with other investigative units, are now focused on identifying the victims and piecing together the events that led to their deaths, Mr Mchunguzi said, emphasising that those responsible for the crime will be pursued and brought to justice.

The bodies have been taken to Handeni District Hospital for further forensic examination as investigations continue.

Mr Mchunguzi called on the public to cooperate with the police by providing any information that may assist in solving the case.

"This is a brutal act, and we urge anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward and aid in the investigation," he said.

The Korogwe Fuel Reserve Forest, where the incident occurred, is managed by the Tanzania Forest Services (TFS) in Handeni District.