Maputo, Mozambique – In a dramatic turn of events, over 6,000 prisoners escaped from a high-security facility near Maputo on Wednesday, as unrest continues to grip the country following the controversial confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the recent elections.
National police chief Bernardino Rafael reported that the mass escape occurred during the third day of escalating tensions, which have been fueled by widespread protests against the election results. The prison, located approximately 15 kilometers from the capital, became a focal point of chaos as groups of demonstrators approached, leading to confusion and ultimately enabling inmates to breach a wall and flee.
Tragically, the escape attempt resulted in the deaths of 33 inmates and left 15 others wounded during clashes with prison staff. In the aftermath, authorities, supported by the army, have managed to recapture around 150 fugitives, including approximately 30 individuals linked to armed groups responsible for ongoing violence in the northern province of Cabo Delgado.
“We are particularly concerned about this situation,” Rafael stated at a press conference, highlighting the potential threat posed by the escapees.
The unrest in Mozambique has been exacerbated by the recent confirmation of Frelimo’s electoral victory, which has been met with accusations of irregularities and claims of a rigged election by opposition leaders. Frelimo leader Daniel Chapo secured 65.17% of the vote, a figure that has sparked further dissent among rival party supporters.
Since the election results were announced on Monday, the capital has seen barricades erected in various neighborhoods, limiting movement and leading to acts of vandalism, including the ransacking of stores and the destruction of public property. Reports indicate that at least 150 people have lost their lives amid the ongoing violence, according to several non-governmental organizations.
Despite the turmoil, some residents have taken to the streets to celebrate Christmas, setting up tables in working-class districts to gather with family and neighbors, a stark contrast to the surrounding chaos.
As the situation continues to unfold, authorities remain on high alert, working to restore order and address the implications of the mass prison break amidst a backdrop of political unrest.
