CDH-VICAR Sends Urgent Letter to UNHCR on Forced Disappearances of Burundian Refugees in Tanzania

CDH/VICAR has formally submitted an urgent letter to UNHCR High Commissioner Filippo Grandi expressing deep concern over the growing number of forced disappearances targeting Burundian refugees in the Nduta and Nyarugusu camps in Tanzania. This letter, sent on 16 September 2025, denounces a series of abductions carried out by Tanzanian intelligence services operating inside refugee camps. CDH/VICAR alerted the UNHCR and reminded all involved institutions of their responsibility to protect refugees who have fled persecution and insecurity.

The letter details multiple cases of Burundian refugees who have been abducted, including community leaders, humanitarian workers, and political activists. These individuals, taken from their shelters during nighttime raids, were reportedly forced into unmarked Toyota Hilux vehicles operated by intelligence agents. CDH/VICAR notes that families have received no information regarding the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones, leaving them in a state of profound anguish and fear.

CDH/VICAR also highlighted the political nature of these targeted disappearances, noting that several victims were known for speaking out against forced repatriation or denouncing human rights violations occurring inside the camps. This pattern raises serious concerns about orchestrated reprisals and the erosion of basic protection standards guaranteed by international refugee law. The organization warned that failing to address these crimes risks normalizing state-led persecution within spaces meant to offer safety.

The letter was simultaneously shared with Tanzanian authorities, regional institutions, UN special procedures, and diplomatic missions to ensure transparency and broader accountability. CDH/VICAR calls on the UNHCR to investigate the disappearances, demand the immediate reappearance of the missing refugees, and take all necessary steps to guarantee their protection. The organization reaffirms its commitment to defending the rights and dignity of all refugees and continues to monitor the situation closely.