HUMAN rights activists have urged President Samia Suluhu Hassan to form a commission of inquiry to investigate recent incidents of kidnappings and disappearances.

The appeal came after a video circulated for a better part of Tuesday and yesterday showing businessman Deogratius Tarimo being forcibly taken into a vehicle by unidentified individuals while crying for help.

In an interview with this paper yesterday, Onesmo Ole Ngurumwa, Coordinator of Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC), emphasized the need for an independent civilian commission to investigate the rising number of incidents involving 'unidentified people' forcibly arresting individuals. 

“The recurring incidents point to a significant failure within our security forces. We still remember cases whereby people were kidnapped and their whereabouts remain unidentified yet others like Ali Kibao died with no answers. The most troubling part is that the incidents continue,” he said. 

“This sends a clear message to the public that the authorities have failed to contain the kidnapping groups. We have consistently called for the President to set up an independent commission to investigate these incidents.” 

Ole Ngurumwa also urged the public to take action when witnessing such incidents and assist in restraining the perpetrators if they attempt to abduct someone in their area. 

"In cases like the one from yesterday (Tuesday), bystanders could have easily intervened to stop the abduction. I urge citizens not to be afraid and protect themselves and others,” he said. 

The 49-second video clip which went viral on social media shows Tarimo being forced into a Toyota Raumu by three men. Tarimo is heard crying for help while the perpetrators threaten to kill him. 

According to David Misime, a police spokesperson, the victim later reported that the incident occurred after a business meeting at a hotel in Kiluvya suburb of Dar es Salaam.

Tarimo stated that he had been in contact with the alleged abductors since October 25 this year. 

“The Police Force is committed to arresting the individuals who attempted to forcibly abduct Tarimo as seen in the viral vide, based on the evidence already gathered and ongoing investigations,” said Misime. 

The incident has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with lawyer Jebra Kambole urging citizens not to accept being arrested by individuals dressed in civilian clothes without proper identification or an arrest warrant.