MAPUTO, Mozambique – Over 6,000 inmates made a dramatic escape from a high-security prison in Mozambique’s capital during a violent uprising on Christmas Day, according to the national police chief. The unrest is linked to unsettling post-election upheaval and riots that have arisen following the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party as the victors of the October 9 elections.
Police Chief Bernardino Rafael reported that 33 inmates lost their lives and 15 sustained injuries in clashes with law enforcement during the unrest. The uprising broke out amidst fierce protests, which led to substantial damage to police vehicles, stations, and other critical infrastructure.
The large-scale prison break occurred at the Maputo Central Prison, situated approximately 14 kilometers (9 miles) southwest of the city center. Rafael indicated that the situation escalated around noon on that fateful Wednesday, triggered by “agitation” from a group of protesters stirring up trouble nearby. Several inmates managed to seize weapons from the guards, facilitating the escape of numerous detainees.
Interestingly, Rafael highlighted that among the escapees were 29 prisoners convicted of terrorism, raising alarms about public safety in the aftermath. He expressed deep concern for the country, calling on the escaped inmates to turn themselves in while urging the public to be vigilant and informed about these fugitives.
Footage shared on social media captured the chaotic scenes as prisoners fled the facility, with additional clips showing military and prison guards recapturing some of the evaded inmates. Numerous fleeing prisoners attempted to conceal themselves within nearby residences but were not all successful, as many were apprehended again.
In a notable clip, one inmate, still handcuffed on one wrist, recounted that he had been held in a disciplinary area before being freed by fellow inmates. The unrest has surged in Mozambique following the announcement by the country’s top court confirming Frelimo’s Daniel Chapo as the winner of a contentious election on October 9.
Moreover, Mozambique’s Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda stated in a press briefing that the violent outbreaks were primarily instigated by youthful supporters of Venancio Mondlane, the losing candidate who garnered 24% of the votes compared to Chapo’s 65%.
Expressing concern over the escalating violence, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged political leaders and relevant entities to engage in dialogue to alleviate the tensions. An associate spokesperson from the U.N. mentioned that the Secretary-General calls for an end to the strife while advocating for intensified efforts towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
