Neighbourhood watch military group
Armed robbery is a big problem in our area. Every year we witness a number of incidents in our neighbourhood and had a meeting where someone suggested we raise a neighbourhood watch group who will be trained and equipped to operate as a military force. Many people seconded this idea because we believe it will give the criminals a test of their own medicine. However, we want to know the legality of this initiative. Please guide us.
KK, Pwani
We are sorry to hear about the trouble of armed robbery in your neighbourhood. Much as we sympathize with your suffering, we are sorry to inform you that you cannot raise a military group or armed force of any kind. Article 147(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, 1977 clearly provides that it is prohibited for any person or any organization or any group of persons except the Government to raise or maintain in Tanzania an armed force of any kind. Only the Government of the United Republic may, in accordance with law, raise and maintain in Tanzania armed forces of various types for the purposes of the defence and security of the territory and the people of Tanzania. We advise that you seek the assistance of the Tanzania Police Force to find a solution to the armed robbery problem.