CNN journalist Larry Madowo has released an explosive investigation alleging that Tanzanian police killed protesters and used mass graves to conceal the extent of their actions during the October 29, 2025 demonstrations.
According to the report, CNN used forensic video analysis, satellite imagery, and testimonies from more than 100 Tanzanians to reconstruct what it says was a violent crackdown on demonstrators. The findings suggest that security forces may have engaged in unlawful killings and attempted to hide evidence through hurried burials.
Madowo stated that CNN reached out to both the Tanzanian government and the police for comment but received no response before publishing the documentary.
The investigation has sparked widespread concern from human rights groups and regional observers, many of whom are calling for an independent inquiry into the events.
Following the global attention generated by the documentary, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania issued a brief statement acknowledging the report.
“The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has taken note of a documentary recently published by CNN regarding the events of 29th October 2025. The Government is currently reviewing and verifying the contents of the documentary. An official response will be issued upon completion of this assessment.”
The government says it will provide a comprehensive response once its internal review of the allegations is complete.