Gold, gemstone worth Sh3.3bn seized in smuggling crackdown in Tanzania
Tanzanian authorities have seized minerals worth billions of shillings in a series of smuggling crackdowns between 2025 and 2026. Government officials are actively prosecuting suspects involved in the illegal transport of gold and gemstones across regional borders.
Why it matters
Mineral smuggling undermines national tax revenue and regulatory control over natural resources in developing economies.
Bukoba. Minerals worth Sh3.3 billion were seized while being smuggled in 55 incidents recorded in various parts of the country between July 2025 and March 2026, while minerals valued at Sh1.6 billion were confiscated in Kagera Region between June and July 2026.
The figures were revealed on Monday, July 13, 2026, by Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, during his visit to Kagera Region to issue the government’s position on recent incidents involving the smuggling of gold and gemstones seized in the area.
Giving details on mineral smuggling cases, Dr Kiruswa said minerals worth Sh3.3 billion were intercepted during smuggling attempts in 55 incidents across the country between July 2025 and March 2026.
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