Tanzanian police nab mineral traders trying to smuggle gold worth Sh1.5 billion
What you need to know:
- The suspects were found with 344 pieces of smelted gold weighing 9.8 kilograms, along with various tools used for smelting and measuring gold.
Mbeya. Police in Mbeya Region are holding 10 mineral traders suspected of smuggling gold worth Sh1.5 billion.
The Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde, announced the arrests at a press conference, stating that the traders were apprehended on March 16 at 10:27 am in the Ilomba neighborhood of Mbeya city.
At the time of their arrest, the suspects were found with 344 pieces of smelted gold weighing 9.8 kilograms, along with various tools used for smelting and measuring gold.
Minister Mavunde has ordered the suspension of the suspects' mining business licenses nationwide while investigations proceed before their arraignment in court.
He commended the Mbeya Regional administration under Regional Commissioner Juma Homera and security agencies for collaborating with the Ministry of Minerals' Task Force to facilitate the apprehension of the suspects.
Minister Mavunde urged all mineral traders to ensure they comply with laws and regulations governing the mineral trade in the country, warning that those found smuggling minerals will face legal action and lose their licenses.
