Suspected Riot Claims 33 Lives in Mozambique Prison Amidst Rising Unrest
A suspected riot at a prison in Maputo, Mozambique, has resulted in at least 33 fatalities and left 15 others injured. The incident also saw more than 1,500 inmates escape from the facility, raising significant concerns about the country’s security situation. Police general commander Bernardino Rafael announced that authorities have recaptured 150 of the escaped prisoners.
This turmoil comes against a backdrop of civil unrest following the controversial results of Mozambique’s October election, which extended the ruling Frelimo party’s grip on power amidst allegations of rigging from opposition groups. Rafael attributed the riot to protests outside the prison, while Justice Minister Helena Kida insisted it originated internally, dismissing any connection to external demonstrations.
Details surrounding the riot indicate that inmates may have overpowered prison guards and seized weapons, including AK-47 rifles, during a time when staffing was reduced for the holiday season. Mozambican journalist Clemente Carlos noted the favorable conditions for an escape, given the lower number of guards available.
This shocking incident has elicited urgent calls for action regarding the nation’s security and justice systems. Adriano Nuvunga, director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights, emphasized the need for collaboration among authorities, civil society, and international partners to ensure public safety and address systemic issues.
Additionally, violence stemming from post-election protests has claimed at least 21 lives over recent days, bringing the total fatalities since October 21 to 151, according to the election monitoring group Plataforma Decide. As the situation escalates, the government faces mounting pressure to restore order and rebuild trust in its institutions.
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