Tanzania: High-profile kidnapping in Dar es Salaam October 11

Event

Mohammad Dewji, a prominent Tanzanian businessman, was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen on the morning (local time) of Thursday, October 11, outside of a luxury hotel in the Oyster Bay neighborhood of Dar es Salaam. Dewji had exited his car and was entering the hotel's gym at the time of the kidnapping; he was not accompanied by any security guards. The kidnappers reportedly pulled Dewji into a car, fired gunshots into the air, and then quickly drove away.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing as of October 11. Although authorities had not announced the kidnappers' identities, location, or motive on the day of the incident, two foreign nationals and one Tanzanian have been arrested in connection with the abduction. Police have implemented enhanced security measures at airports and all border checkpoints.

Context

Dewji is responsible for roughly 3 percent of Tanzania's GDP and is a central figure in Tanzanian and African business. He previously served two terms in Tanzania's parliament, retiring in 2015.

Advice

Individuals in Tanzania, and particularly those in Dar es Salaam, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, report suspicious objects and behavior to the police, and allow extra time to travel due to heightened security measures. Adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities or your home government. Professional security advice and support may reduce exposure to personal security risks.