The Role of Law Enforcement in Combating Financial Cybercrime in Tanzania: Examining the Laws and Practice

Abstract

Financial cybercrime is defined as the use of the internet or computer to commit criminal activity for financial gain. Digital financial services development plays a pivotal role in economic growth despite the rise of financial cybercrime. Not only that but also mobile financial services hold great potential to expand financial access among people. While this progress lingers, some users have engaged themselves in financial cybercrimes for illegal gain. The Cybercrime Act of Tanzania 2015 provided for law enforcement officers including a Police officer with the rank of assistant inspector or an investigator of equivalent rank of inspector and above, a member of the Tanzania National Intelligence Service, Prosecutors and other authorized persons or the officer commanding station (OCS) termed as a law enforcement officer. The report of the Tanzania computer emergence response team beginning from the 9th day of June 2023 to the 15th day of June 2024 shows how financial cybercrime is seriously increasing despite the measurements taken. This paper explores the legal and practical role of law enforcement in combating financial cybercrime examining the adequacy of existing laws, enforcement limitations, and social issues that complicate intervention efforts. Highlighting legal analysis, case studies, and comparative insights, the study discusses potential reforms and offers recommendations for more effective prevention and response mechanisms. This study aims to contribute to an improved understanding of the unique challenges Tanzania faces in combating financial cybercrime that address legal, educational, and technological issues