Family members reported that unknown assailants abducted former Tanzanian ambassador Humphrey Polepole from his Dar es Salaam residence on Monday morning. His brother Godfrey Polepole discovered broken doors, severed electrical wiring, and substantial blood evidence at the scene. Dar es Salaam police chief Jumanne Muliro acknowledged the investigation but questioned the incident's authenticity by noting the former diplomat frequently claimed to be abroad.
Polepole resigned in July after criticizing government actions he characterized as violations of justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles. President Samia Suluhu Hassan subsequently revoked his diplomatic appointment. Police opened a criminal investigation last month after he made online allegations against government institutions, and authorities summoned him for questioning.
The incident occurred ahead of Tanzania's general elections scheduled for Oct. 29. Opposition party Chadema faces participation bans, and leader Tundu Lissu has been detained since April. Critics report increased government repression, and abductions targeting dissenting voices have escalated in recent months.
Polepole resigned in July after criticizing government actions he characterized as violations of justice, the rule of law, and constitutional principles. President Samia Suluhu Hassan subsequently revoked his diplomatic appointment. Police opened a criminal investigation last month after he made online allegations against government institutions, and authorities summoned him for questioning.
The incident occurred ahead of Tanzania's general elections scheduled for Oct. 29. Opposition party Chadema faces participation bans, and leader Tundu Lissu has been detained since April. Critics report increased government repression, and abductions targeting dissenting voices have escalated in recent months.
