Tanzanian Drug Authorities Nab Notorious Khat Queenpin

Alleged Khat Trade Kingpin Arrested in Same During Major Drug Crackdown

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Same, Kilimanjaro Region – A woman alleged to be a long-time leader in the illicit khat (mirungi) trade has been apprehended by Tanzanian authorities during a sweeping anti-narcotics operation in the Same district.

The suspect, Interindwa Kirumbi, widely known as Mama Dangote, was arrested at her residence in Likweni village, where authorities discovered the house surrounded by large khat plantations. The 67-year-old has reportedly been at the helm of an illegal drug trafficking network for over 30 years.

The arrest was part of a seven-day special operation spearheaded by the Drug Control and Enforcement Authority (DCEA), which also led to the destruction of approximately 285.5 acres of khat farms in the region.

Speaking on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, DCEA Commissioner General Aretas Lyimo confirmed that the suspect has long been a key figure in the production and distribution of khat across the country.

“She has consistently evaded security forces over the years. We successfully tracked her to her home, which is encircled by khat fields,” stated Lyimo. “She is now in custody and has been handed over to law enforcement agencies for further legal action.”

Persistent Khat Cultivation in Same District

Despite previous efforts by the government to eliminate khat farming in Same, the illegal cultivation of the stimulant plant remains prevalent. Commissioner Lyimo noted that in the previous year, the DCEA destroyed 535 acres of khat fields as part of a broad educational and enforcement campaign.

“We worked closely with district leaders to educate residents about the dangers of drug use, particularly khat,” he said. “We encouraged them to shift to alternative crops and livestock farming as sustainable income sources.”

To support this initiative, the Same District Council and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock introduced various development programs. These included the distribution of pig farming projects, as well as coffee, cardamom, and other crop seedlings to help farmers transition away from khat.

Lyimo acknowledged the success of these efforts, stating that many residents have embraced legal farming practices. However, he noted that a minority have defied these measures and continue to engage in khat cultivation and trade.

“Same remains a hotspot for khat production, posing a serious threat to national well-being. That’s why we are committed to conducting continuous operations to completely eradicate the cultivation, transportation, and use of both farm-grown and industrial drugs,” he emphasized.

Continued Government Crackdown

Echoing these concerns, Ekondi Ward Executive Officer, Agnes Mshana, confirmed local awareness of individuals involved in khat farming. She emphasized that the government remains proactive in educating the public on the risks of drug use while facilitating access to alternative agricultural ventures.

The DCEA affirmed that operations will persist throughout the region, ensuring that all individuals involved in the khat trade are apprehended and subjected to due legal processes.