An Analysis of Vigilantism and Its Effects on Police Force Legitimacy in Tanzania

Vigilantism has increasingly emerged across sub-Saharan Africa as a response to perceived inadequacies in state-provided security and justice. This study examines its rise and implications for police legitimacy in Tanzania, focusing on Dar es Salaam and Mwanza. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with a sample of 50 respondents selected through simple random sampling. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, applying ANOVA and Exploratory Factor Analysis. The findings indicate that delays in police response and socio-economic conditions are primary drivers of vigilantism, with socio-economic status ranked highest (RII = 0.704), while cultural factors were least significant (RII = 0.436). Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between perceptions of police legitimacy and support for vigilantism (p < 0.05). Additionally, community safety strategies, including community policing and improved accountability, were found to significantly mitigate vigilantism. The study concludes that strengthening police efficiency, institutional legitimacy, and the collaboration between the community and the police force is essential for reducing reliance on extralegal justice mechanisms.