Tanzanian president tells security forces to target drug traffickers

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Traffickers

Dar, Es Salaam, Feb. 7, 2017 (Reuters/NAN) President John Magufuli told Tanzania’s security forces to crack down on the drugs trade, the report said on Tuesday.

The president said that no one should be spared, even if they are top politicians or their relatives.

Magufuli, nicknamed “The Bulldozer” for the way he pushes through projects, has launched a drive against corruption, tax evasion and poaching since taking office in November 2015.

His new drive against drugs reflects growing international concerns that East Africa is being used by traffickers.

Most Europe-bound Afghan heroin still goes through Iran and the Balkans, a spate of record-size hauls near Kenya and Tanzania has raised fears.

This has caused the East Africa to be seen as an easier route because of porous borders and weak maritime surveillance.

“In this war against narcotics, no one is too prominent to be arrested.

“Even if they are politicians, security officers, cabinet ministers or the child of a prominent person.

“Even if my wife, Janeth, is involved” she should be arrested,” Magufuli told the heads of the defence and security forces.

Tanzanians have long complained that top officials or those with government connections have often been spared prosecution for corruption and other crimes.

Magufuli has sought to show even those in high office will be held accountable for criminal activity or poor performance.

He has sacked several top officials in the tax authority and other institutions since taking office.

He praised the police chief for suspending 12 junior officers last week on suspicion of drugs trafficking. (Reuters/NAN)

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=======Edited by Celine-Damilola Oyewole/Morayo Omolade