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Tanzania Releases Two Kenyan Officers and Three Civilians Following Border Detention

Firearms and government vehicle remain in custody as internal investigation continues

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Tanzanian authorities have released five individuals, including two Kenyan police officers, who were detained at the Horo-Horo One-Stop Border Point following an incident that raised questions about cross-border law enforcement jurisdiction.

Officers Patrick Kithinji and Ahmed Ali, both stationed at Tononoka police station in Mombasa, were released from custody along with three civilians—Mzee Mwinyi, Sophia Menza Mbogo, and Abdikadir Adan—according to an official police report. The group had been detained on January 6, 2026, after a joint briefing conducted by government agencies from both nations.

The incident occurred when the two officers allegedly crossed into Tanzanian territory while attempting to apprehend a suspect. According to the initial police report, the officers were pursuing Omar Ali, wanted in connection with an alleged fraud case involving obtaining money through false pretenses in the Tononoka area.

While the five individuals have been freed, their release came with conditions. Two Ceska pistols, each loaded with 15 rounds of ammunition, along with a government motor vehicle registered to the Department of Water Development, remain detained at Lungalunga police station in Kwale County.

The retention of the firearms and vehicle indicates that internal police procedures are ongoing, with authorities expected to conduct a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the cross-border pursuit.

The case highlights the complexities of transnational law enforcement operations and the importance of proper protocols when pursuing suspects across international boundaries. Kenya and Tanzania maintain cooperative security agreements, though such arrangements typically require formal coordination between relevant authorities before officers operate beyond their jurisdiction.

Police officials have not yet released additional details regarding potential disciplinary measures or the timeline for the return of the detained equipment and vehicle.

The Horo-Horo One-Stop Border Point serves as a major crossing between Kenya and Tanzania, facilitating both trade and passenger movement between the two East African nations.