The government of Tanzania has ordered the indefinite closure of Hangjin Steel Tanzania Limited in the Coast Region after discovering severe environmental violations and unexplained ammunition at the facility.

Deputy Minister Reuben Kwagilwa, responsible for environment and union affairs, announced the shutdown following a surprise inspection revealing the plant's non-compliance with environmental laws.

Key breaches included lack of an Environmental Impact Assessment certificate, illegal waste disposal practices, and contamination risks to local communities.Security concerns arose from the discovery of unused bullets on-site, prompting an investigation into their origin and purpose.

The National Environment Management Council (NEMC) highlighted challenges in oversight due to the company's repeated refusal to allow inspections.

The closure mandates immediate production halt until full compliance is achieved, emphasizing Tanzania's commitment to balancing industrial growth with environmental protection and public safety.