DAR ES SALAAM: THE Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, has issued a one-week ultimatum to individuals accused of illegally seizing or fraudulently acquiring plots of land and property, ordering them to return the assets or face strict legal action.
Speaking to media outlets today, March 2, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, Chalamila said the region has experienced a sharp rise in land-related disputes, leading to widespread public complaints and distress.
He described the situation as requiring immediate government intervention.
“I have a list of individuals whom we have confirmed to be major land grabbers within Dar es Salaam city,” Chalamila said. “I am giving them one week to ensure that any land they are occupying unlawfully is returned to its rightful owners.”
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He added that following inspection tours conducted in various parts of the city, more than 16 plots have already been voluntarily returned by those involved. The government has decided to pardon individuals who surrender the properties without coercion.
Chalamila identified Kigamboni, Ilala, and several other areas of the city as leading in complaints related to land fraud.
According to him, his office has received numerous reports concerning illegal land seizures, arbitrary transfers of ownership, and exploitative loan agreements that have resulted in citizens losing their property.
He also disclosed the existence of fraudulent schemes in certain car sales operations, where buyers pay substantial sums of money but are not given the vehicles. In some cases, individuals are reported to have lost more than 100m/-.