The Tanzanian police have initiated an investigation after hackers compromised several official government and private accounts on the social media platform X. The incident prompted restrictions on access, as confusion and uproar grow around recent deportations of Kenyan activists.
Tanzania Restricts Access to Social Media Platform X Following Hacking Incident
Tanzania Restricts Access to Social Media Platform X Following Hacking Incident
Authorities investigate hacking of police and government accounts as access to X is restricted across the country.
In an alarming turn of events, Tanzania's social media landscape has been shaken by hacking incidents that targeted official government accounts on the platform X. Following these breaches, access to X has been significantly restricted across the country, particularly affecting major internet providers.
On Tuesday, the Tanzanian police's official account was hacked, leading to the posting of inappropriate content and false claims regarding the president's demise. In response, the police distanced themselves from this misinformation and announced an investigation aiming to identify the culprits behind the attack. However, later findings from Netblocks indicated that X became "unreachable" for users in various regions, casting doubt on the situation—especially in Dar es Salaam, where connections remain largely nonexistent without a VPN, which requires special permits.
While the authorities have not resumed services on X nor openly acknowledged an outright ban, Information Minister Jerry Silaa confirmed that the compromised government accounts have been secured. Government spokesman Gerson Msigwa reiterated the seriousness of the hacking and warned that swift actions would be taken against the perpetrators.
The social media disruptions occur against a backdrop of political turmoil, notably surrounding the deportation of prominent Kenyan activists. According to reports, several activists were expelled as they traveled to Tanzania to attend a court hearing involving opposition leader Tundu Lissu, who faces treason charges. President Samia Suluhu Hassan voiced her firm stance against foreign meddling in Tanzania's domestic affairs, insisting that her government would not tolerate disruption.
Activist Boniface Mwangi and Ugandan Agather Atuhaire have reportedly been detained by suspected military personnel in Dar es Salaam, with their current status still shrouded in mystery. Mwangi's wife expressed deep concern for his well-being, fearing for his safety due to the lack of communication since his detention. Meanwhile, Boniface Mwabukusi, head of the Tanganyika Law Society, stated that the legal team is actively monitoring the situation to pursue just and timely resolutions.
As Tanzania grapples with these unfolding events, the situation remains tense as citizens and officials alike await clarity on both social media restrictions and the fates of detained activists.
