Lugola spits fire over unruly traffic cops

HOME Affairs Minister, Kangi Lugola has warned unruly traffic police officers who use their positions to get quick money from unsuspecting drivers, to desist from it.

Addressing a public meeting at Mashujaa Stadium in Missenyi District of Kagera Region on Thursday afternoon, Minister Lugola said he had received many complaints from different corners regarding misconduct by some traffic police officers.

Citing some of the complaints raised by wananchi, Mr Lugola said several traffic police officers stalk unsuspecting drivers wearing civilian clothes, while others recklessly chase bodaboda drivers in streets resulting in unnecessary accidents and deaths.

"This should stop forthwith. Police Officers are guided by rules listed down under the Police General Orders (PGO).

I also direct that motorcycle should not be piled up at police stations unless there is a pending case," he said amid applause from a big crowd that attended the meeting.

He emphasised that the Fifth Phase Government under President John Magufuli was keen to ensure that poor Tanzanians get maximum services and timely justice.

He directed the Kagera Regional Police Commander (RPC), Revocatus Malimi, to put in place arrangements where bodaboda operators would get assistance to access driving licences.

Minister Lugola also directed the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Simon Sirro to ensure that Militia (Mgambo) work in accordance to the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA). Some militias are reported to conduct searches in homes without following laid down procedures, he said.

Mr Ildefonce Mulokozi from Bunazi Village informed Minister Lugola that his 14-year old daughter (name withheld) who was in Standard Five at Bunazi Primary School, in Missenyi District was raped but the suspect was walking scot free.

"Your honour, when I reported the matter, the Officer Commanding Kyaka arbitrary arrested me and instead filed a case of assault against me. The girl has already delivered. I want DNA test to be conducted. I kindly ask your intervention," he said.

Minister Lugola directed RPC Malimi to give him feed-back before he concludes his eight day visit in the region.