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Tragedy in Mirerani: Two Police officers killed by lightning
What you need to know:
- The officers, identified as Joseph Nyamoko and Issa Masoud, were reportedly hit by lightning during a routine road safety operation in Mirerani township amid light rainfall. Their deaths have left the local community and police fraternity in mourning.
Manyara. Two traffic police officers stationed at Mirerani Police Station in Simanjiro District have died after being struck by lightning while on duty on Tuesday, May 13.
The officers, identified as Joseph Nyamoko and Issa Masoud, were reportedly hit by lightning during a routine road safety operation in Mirerani township amid light rainfall. Their deaths have left the local community and police fraternity in mourning.
Confirming the incident, Manyara Regional Police Commander, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police (SACP) Ahmed Makarani, said the two were on official assignment when tragedy struck.
“It is a deeply unfortunate incident. The officers were fulfilling their duty to the nation when they were fatally struck by lightning. We are coordinating with their families and making arrangements to transport their bodies—Officer Issa will be laid to rest in Pemba, and Officer Nyamoko in Mwanza,” said Commander Makarani.
Local leaders and residents have paid tribute to the fallen officers, describing them as disciplined and community-oriented individuals.
Kilimahewa street chairman Andrew Nyambo, in whose ward the officers resided, said both men were actively involved in local affairs and had good relations with residents when off duty.
“They were not just police officers; they were part of this community,” he said. “They participated in community events and always showed respect and humility. Their loss is deeply felt.”
Officer Nyamoko leaves behind a wife and two children. Officer Issa is also survived by a wife and two children.
Simanjiro District Sheikh, Ramia Isanga, urged residents to reflect on the fragility of life.
“This tragedy reminds us that our lives are not in our hands. Let us live in a way that is pleasing to God. The officers died while serving their nation. Let us honour them by living with purpose and faith,” said Sheikh Isanga.
Ernest Lukumay, a fellow Catholic parishioner of the late Nyamoko at the Virgin Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, described him as a devout man whose wedding was celebrated with great joy in the church.
“He was humble, God-fearing, and respectful. We grieve as a faith community,” Lukumay shared.
John Daniel, a resident of Kilimahewa, said he had grown close to Officer Issa over the past year following his transfer from Lindi Region.
“He was kind-hearted and well-mannered,” said Daniel. “His loss is not just personal—it’s a loss to all who knew him.”
An eyewitness to the incident, Elias Sayore, said the officers were near a tree when the lightning struck. He recalled that it had been lightly raining at the time.
“There were three officers earlier, including a female officer, but she left for another assignment. The two remained behind. The lightning strike was sudden—it passed through the area and struck them,” Sayore recounted.
The tragic deaths have brought renewed attention to occupational safety risks faced by police officers, especially during adverse weather conditions.
