Mozambique Jail Riot Leads to Escape and Deaths

According to the reports on Wednesday (25 December), a riot in a prison in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, resulted in at least 33 deaths and 15 injuries, with more than 1,500 prisoners escaping. Authorities reported that 150 of the escapees had been recaptured, but the incident has raised serious concerns about the state of security in the country. The unrest occurred amidst escalating civil unrest following the disputed October elections, which saw the ruling Frelimo party extend its grip on power. Opposition groups have accused the government of rigging the vote, which has fueled protests across the country.

The causes of the riot remain unclear. Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael suggested that protests outside the prison had sparked the violence inside, while Justice Minister Helena Kida stated that the unrest began within the prison itself, unrelated to the protests outside. The prisoners reportedly overpowered guards and seized AK-47 rifles, which enabled their mass escape.

The escape likely took place during the Christmas holiday season, when fewer guards were on duty. The incident highlights the vulnerabilities within the Mozambican justice and prison systems, with concerns about the lack of security and preparedness for such violent outbursts. Mozambique’s democracy and human rights director, Adriano Nuvunga, called for urgent action and collaboration among authorities, civil society, and international partners to ensure public safety.

This violent prison break follows a wave of deadly unrest related to Mozambique’s controversial election results. In the days prior to the riot, at least 21 people, including two police officers, died during violent protests and attacks on police stations, petrol stations, and banks. Since October 21, the total death toll in Mozambique has risen to 151, according to an election monitoring group, Plataforma Decide.

References

• Mozambique Jail Riot Sparks Deadly Chaos and Mass Escape