At least 34 people are being held for questioning following the killing of six conservation officers in Sikonge District, Tabora Region.
Five other officers sustained serious injuries during the incident, which occurred on September 18, 2026, in the Ipole Wildlife Management Area (WMA) while the personnel were safeguarding the country’s natural resources.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, Natural Resources and Tourism Minister Dr Ashatu Kijaji confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
“Investigations into the cause, circumstances and those involved in this incident are being conducted by the police in cooperation with other security organs,” Dr Kijaji told journalists, adding that 34 suspects have been detained to assist inquiries.
Addressing a separate incident regarding wildlife deaths reported in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Arusha Region on the same day, the minister noted that 11 lions and two hyenas have been confirmed dead.
Preliminary checks, she said, revealed injuries on some carcasses, with comprehensive probes still underway.
On officer safety, Dr Kijaji assured that the government will take necessary measures to improve working conditions and security for personnel protecting natural resources.
She also called for stronger collaboration with communities living adjacent to protected areas.
“The government will continue to strengthen cooperation with communities living around protected areas because sustainable conservation cannot be achieved without the cooperation of citizens living near these areas,” she said, emphasising peaceful conflict resolution in accordance with the law.