Bagamoyo: Bagamoyo District Commissioner, Shaibu Ndembe, has issued a stern warning to people involved in the smuggling of forest products, especially charcoal through the mute port, stressing that strict legal action will be taken against those found to be defying the order.
The warning came after a joint operation conducted by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) Office, Saadani Special Zone, in collaboration with the district’s Security and Safety Committee, resulted in the seizure of two barges carrying more than 100 bags of charcoal in the Shanga River area, Bagamoyo.
The patrol, which took place on the night of August 23, 2025, aimed to control the illegal trade of forest products through unofficial ports known as mute ports.
However, the suspects escaped and abandoned the barges along with the charcoal load that was loaded.
According to the Forestry Act No. 14 of 2002 and its guidelines, the transportation of forest products should be done only through official ports, including Bagamoyo Port.
“These patrols are continuous and continue to be carried out in all areas of unofficial ports to enhance conservation and prevent loss of government revenue,” said DC Ndemanga.
The Bagamoyo District Commissioner’s Office has expressed gratitude to the Bagamoyo District Forestry Office, Saadani National Park (SANAPA), the Police Force and other conservation stakeholders for their cooperation in implementing the responsibility to protect national resources.
