The Puzzling Kidnapping of Mohammed Dewji: A Tale of Power, Politics, and Unanswered Questions

 

 October 2018 indeed turned into a "Black October" as a series of troubling events unfolded. On October 10, 57 lives were lost in a tragic accident on Thika Road in Kenya. The very next day, Mohammed Dewji, a billionaire and Africa's youngest at 43, was abducted in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Dewji, featured in Forbes magazine, is not just a billionaire but also the second-largest employer in Tanzania after the government, making his kidnapping a national and international sensation.

On that fateful morning, Dewji drove himself to his usual gym, the Coliseum Hotel and Fitness Club, around 5 a.m. As he arrived, two cars were already parked in the lot. Moments later, two hooded men emerged, firing shots into the air and abducting Dewji in a dramatic movie-like scene. The kidnappers sped off, disappearing into the shadows of the Oyster Bay area, a region dotted with embassies and surveillance cameras.

Immediate Response: Unanswered Questions

Soon after the incident, Tanzanian police issued statements, claiming the kidnappers were "white men." This declaration raised suspicions. Typically, investigators avoid releasing information early to prevent tipping off perpetrators. So why were authorities so quick to label the abductors as foreigners? Was this a deliberate attempt to distract from the real perpetrators?

Dewji's Lack of Security

Despite his stature, Dewji did not have personal security. In Tanzania, a unique community-based security system called nyumba kumi (ten households) makes monitoring local activity highly effective. This system, coupled with Tanzania's low crime rates, might have given Dewji a false sense of security.

A Pattern of Suspicious Kidnappings

Dewji's abduction is not an isolated incident. Since the controversial 2010 reelection of former President Jakaya Kikwete, Tanzania has seen an alarming rise in kidnappings, particularly during President John Pombe Magufuli's tenure. Victims have included journalists, opposition leaders, and activists—most notably Azory Gwanda and journalist Steven Limbaga, who both accused government agents of involvement in their ordeals.

A Politically Motivated Act?

Given Dewji's ties to the ruling CCM party and his past role as a legislator, his abduction raises questions. Was he a threat to the government due to his economic influence and potential dissent? Dewji's recent tweets hinted at dissatisfaction, possibly signaling growing tension with the Magufuli administration.

The Economic Context

Magufuli's policies have alienated investors. From renegotiating mining contracts to denying work permits for expatriates, his administration's actions have made Tanzania less appealing to foreign investment. Dewji, with his vast business network, could have been a pivotal figure in bridging the gap between business leaders and the government—a role that might have put him at odds with Magufuli's hardline stance.

A Wider Conspiracy?

The swift identification of the kidnappers as "white men" appears strategic, possibly aiming to rally public support against foreigners amid growing criticism of the government. Meanwhile, the arrest of 30 individuals, including gym staff and security personnel, seems more like a move to silence potential witnesses rather than solve the crime.

Conclusion

Dewji's abduction remains shrouded in mystery, highlighting deep-seated issues in Tanzania's political and economic landscape. Whether it was a criminal act or politically motivated, the incident underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability. Our thoughts remain with Dewji’s family, hoping for his safe return.