12 arrested in Zanzibar for eating in public during Ramadhan
Eating in public during the day in Ramadhan is considered an offence in Zanzibar.
What you need to know:
- Zanzibar, with a predominantly Muslim population, enforces regulations based on Islamic principles during Ramadhan for both locals and visitors.
Dar es Salaam. Police in Zanzibar's Mjini Magharibi region have arrested 12 people for eating and drinking in public during the day during the month of Ramadhan, a period of fasting for Muslims.
Zanzibar, which has a predominantly Muslim population, enforces regulations based on Islamic principles during Ramadhan for both locals and visitors.
The acting regional police commander, Abubakar Khamis Ally, said the arrests were made following an investigation prompted by a circulated video showing people eating at Mnazi Mmoja Square, in violation of Ramadhan fasting rules.
Eating in public during daylight hours during Ramadhan is considered an offence, so the individuals were detained at Madema police station pending investigation, after which they will be charged in court.
However, the police chief warned that the police will continue to arrest anyone found eating in public during the holy month of Ramadhan.
ACP Ally was quoted as saying: "During this month of Ramadhan, as per the customs of this island, even food establishments are closed. So it's not appropriate for individuals to sit in public places and eat openly; it's an offence and that's why we are arresting them and will continue to do so because they are causing inconvenience to others".
Offence of eating in public
The 12 people arrested for the offence of eating in public during daytime include Issa Hamad Juma (40) from Kikwajuni, Hamad Hamis Indole (25) from Mtwara, Hashimu Bakari Nassoro (35) from Kwarara and Selemani Ismail Nalinga (34) from Magogoni.
They are currently in custody at Madema Police Station and investigations are underway to prepare them for trial.
Meanwhile, the Zanzibar Tourism Commission has announced in its public statement that it has fined the company Organisateur Francophone Tours and Travel $500 for violating the Commission's guidelines by allowing tourists to eat in public during the holy month of Ramadhan.
The Commission's official statement reads as follows: "Despite issuing guidelines and directives for tourism companies to follow, the company allowed guests to eat in public. Therefore, the Commission has taken the following actions: imposed a fine of $500 and immediately suspended the company's tour guide, Khamis M. Kahogo, from conducting any tourism activities for three months."
"The Zanzibar Tourism Commission emphasises the importance of respecting the customs and traditions of the islands of Zanzibar, especially during Ramadhan, in order to promote good relations with the surrounding communities," the statement added.
