38 People Now Detained Over LBL Online Scam in Dar Es Salaam

Police Arrest 26 More LBL Employees in Dar Es Salaam for Online Fraud

In a significant development, the police in Dar es Salaam have arrested 26 individuals, including several employees of the controversial Leo Burnett London (LBL) company, for their involvement in an illegal online pyramid scheme. This brings the total number of arrested suspects to 38, after initial arrests were made earlier in the week.

The arrests, which took place between February 18 and 22, 2025, stem from allegations of operating an unauthorized online fraud operation without the necessary approval from the Bank of Tanzania (BoT). The suspects, primarily employees of LBL, including the company’s director Najim Houmud, were apprehended across various locations in Dar es Salaam, including Mbagala, Gongolamboto, Tabata, Mbezi Magufuli, Ubungo Riverside, and Mabibo.

The company is accused of collecting an entry fee of Sh50,000 from new members, promising daily profits through the distribution of videos, without members being involved in any genuine business activities. The police's investigation, conducted in collaboration with BoT, revealed that the company lacked a clear leadership structure and was misleading the public with promises of quick financial gains.

This latest round of arrests follows the detention of 12 individuals from the regions of Morogoro and Mbeya earlier in February. As investigations continue, all suspects are expected to face charges in court.

Police authorities have urged the public to exercise caution and avoid participating in unlicensed online schemes, as these activities pose a significant risk to their financial security.