On the morning of November 14, 2025,
CDH/VICAR documented a grave incident of targeted repression in the Nyarugusu
Refugee Camp in Tanzania. According to verified testimonies collected by our
monitoring team, a large police contingent, including armed officers in both
uniform and civilian clothing, conducted an operation in Zone 8, No. 4,
specifically targeting refugee resident Achel Nikundana. This individual has
been repeatedly associated with sharing information regarding human rights
violations and misconduct within the camp.
During the
operation, Mr. Nikundana managed to evade arrest by fleeing the scene. However,
his family members, including his younger brother, were detained by police
forces. Their official refugee identification documents (Proof/ID) were
confiscated on the spot. Officers then proceeded to demolish the family’s home,
leaving the remaining relatives without shelter or documentation—an act in
clear violation of refugee protection standards.
Following the
incident, the detained family members were immediately added to the list of
individuals slated for forced repatriation, despite the evident risks
associated with such measures. Preliminary findings indicate that the punitive
actions were triggered by accusations that Mr. Nikundana had published
information exposing abuses allegedly committed by Tanzanian authorities and
some UNHCR staff, and that he served as a source for reports disseminated
across social media and media outlets.
This
documentation activity forms part of CDH/VICAR’s broader mandate to monitor,
report, and advocate against threats faced by vulnerable populations in
displacement settings. We remain committed to following this case, engaging
relevant institutions, and ensuring that refugee rights are respected in accordance
with international law. Our organization will continue to amplify the voices of
those who face reprisals for speaking out against abuses.
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