Tanzanian businessman who escaped kidnapping attempt narrates his ordeal

Dar es Salaam. Deogratius Tarimo, a businessman who narrowly escaped an attempted kidnapping by individuals claiming to be police officers on November 11, 2024, credited his stamina and physique for preventing him from being forcibly taken.

The incident occurred at the Rovenpic Hotel in Kiluvya, Dar es Salaam, and has ignited online discussions after a video surfaced showing two men trying to abduct Tarimo, known locally as Deo Bonge. CCTV footage captured him being forcibly pulled by three individuals from the hotel.

"I can't say it was just my physique, but stamina played a role. My body definitely helped, as it would have been easier otherwise," Tarimo told Clouds TV in an interview on November 13, 2024.

After the incident, he reported it to the Gogoni Police Station. "I am okay. When I went to the police station, they provided excellent assistance, and I am doing well now," he said.

In an interview with The Citizen’s sister publication, Mwananchi on November 14, 2024, Tarimo refrained from discussing the details of the incident but stated that he still does not know the identities of those who attempted to abduct him. "I really haven't been able to find out who they are, although the police deny that they are actual officers. When we questioned them, they claimed to be police but didn't show us any identification," he explained.

Witnesses, including a hotel attendant, described how the alleged kidnappers identified themselves as police officers from Gogoni and demanded that Tarimo get into a Toyota Raum vehicle they arrived in.

Further reports indicate that Tarimo had been in contact with the individuals trying to kidnap him since October 25, 2024, and had arranged to meet on November 11 for business discussions.

When asked if he had been communicating with them prior to their meeting, Tarimo said the matter is currently under police investigation. "It's true, but these things are under investigation by the police. I think we should let them complete their work before providing a full report, as giving conflicting information could be problematic."

Tarimo's family has a business background; they previously owned a bar called Sunset and now he operates four hardware stores. However, when asked about his family's business, he said, "Those are private matters."

Yesterday, police spokesperson David Misime released a statement assuring the public that they are actively pursuing those responsible for the attempted kidnapping.