Police in Tanzania have arrested an American soldier at the Sirari border who was allegedly attempting to enter the East African country with explosive material on his person.
In a statement released on Sunday night, the Tanzania Police said that the 30-year-old man is a sergeant in the United States army who holds dual Kenyan and American citizenship.
“A citizen of the United States and Kenya, from the United States Army, holding the rank of Sergeant was trying to enter the country with four CS M68 hand grenades. He was coming from Kenya and using a Toyota Land Cruiser,” A police spokesman said in a statement.
“According to the Arms Ownership Law, even if he asked for permission, he would not be allowed to enter the country with the bombs.”
Police are continuing to question the soldier who is being detained at the local station while an investigation is being carried out to ascertain what actions if any will be taken against him.
The Police spokesman stated that everything is being done in accordance with the laws of the land to get to the bottom of the matter.
“The suspect is being questioned about the allegations so that appropriate actions according to the law can be taken against him. Everyone arrested needs to go through the same process like everyone else. The US embassy will be notified on developments should this go further.” said the spokesman. ” He will be held until the investigation is over.”