Kenyan-US Dual Citizen Arrested at Sirari Border with Hand Grenades, Tanzanian Police Say
Authorities say this arrest highlights the importance of stringent border checks and cooperation between security agencies.
Image of Sirari Ones Stop Border Post Office. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth sang
Authorities in Tanzania have identified Charles Onkuri Ongeta, a dual citizen of Kenya and the United States, who was arrested when he tried to enter the country with explosives. The incident happened at the Sirari border post, one of the key crossing points between Kenya and Tanzania.
According to the Tanzanian police, Ongeta was found carrying four CS M68 hand grenades when he attempted to cross into Tanzania on November 16. The suspect was reportedly traveling in a Land Cruiser, headed from Kenya to Tanzania, when security officers stopped him. Authorities have identified Ongeta as a 30-year-old sergeant currently serving in the United States military.
In a statement, police in Tanzania said that under the country’s laws on arms control, the possession of such explosives is highly regulated. “Even if this person had applied for permission to bring these explosives into Tanzania, the law does not allow entry with such materials,” the statement read. The law has clearly stipulated that it is forbidden to carry military-grade explosives without explicit authorization; hence, it can pose serious risks to the safety of the general public.
The arrest has led to further investigations by police, who are trying to establish the circumstances surrounding the attempted smuggling and the suspect’s motives. The police are interrogating Ongeta actively to get more details on the incident and to ensure that the correct procedures are followed to prosecute the case in court. “Investigations are ongoing to establish the facts and take appropriate legal action in accordance with Tanzanian law,” authorities confirmed.
The incident has sparked concerns about the security of cross-border travel and possible threats by individuals who intend to sneak in explosives across the borders. Tanzanian authorities have earlier reassured their commitment to prevent illegal weapons and explosives from entering the country, citing national security and public safety.
The Sirari border post, along the busy Kenya-Tanzania highway, has long been a focal point for law enforcement monitoring because of its heavy traffic of people and goods across both countries. Authorities say this arrest highlights the importance of stringent border checks and cooperation between security agencies to prevent the illegal transport of dangerous materials.
Charles Onkuri Ongeta now faces legal proceedings in Tanzania, with further updates expected as the investigations unfold. The Tanzanian police have assured the public of strict adherence to the law regarding those found in violation of the nation’s strict arms and explosives regulations. The incident further reminds the public of the critical role border security plays in keeping citizens safe and ensuring weapons and explosives do not enter the country illegally.
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