On Christmas Day, more than 6,000 inmates escaped from a Maputo prison during riots triggered by the ruling Frelimo party’s election victory. The police reported 33 deaths and numerous injuries amid violent protests. Armed prisoners facilitated their own escape, raising concerns over security and public safety. Authorities call for the return of escapees and urge citizens to remain vigilant regarding the fugitives.
On Christmas Day, over 6,000 inmates escaped from a high-security facility in Maputo, Mozambique’s capital, following a violent rebellion amidst widespread post-election riots. Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael reported that 33 prisoners died, with 15 others injured during altercations with security forces. The mass escape occurred during protests ignited by the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s electoral victory, which led to significant unrest and destruction of public infrastructure. The prison, located approximately 14 kilometers southwest of the city, witnessed agitation initiated by a faction of protesters, who reportedly seized weapons from prison staff and facilitated the release of fellow detainees.
Rafael remarked, “A curious fact is that in that prison we had 29 convicted terrorists, who they released. We are worried, as a country, as Mozambicans, as members of the defence and security forces.” The riots prompted the collapse of a prison wall, enabling the mass exodus of inmates. Authorities have urged the escaped prisoners to voluntarily surrender while emphasizing the need for public awareness regarding the fugitives. Footage proliferating on social media depicts the chaotic moments of the escape and subsequent captures by military personnel and prison guards. Some inmates attempted to elude capture by seeking refuge in nearby homes, although several were ultimately detained.
The mass escape from Maputo Central Prison reflects the heightened tensions and violence in Mozambique following the contentious October elections. The ruling Frelimo party, having secured victory, has faced backlash from opposition groups, prompting extensive unrest throughout the nation. Protests have escalated into destructive acts against public properties, indicating discontent among the populace regarding the electoral outcome. The prison riot highlights security vulnerabilities within the penal system and raises concerns about the potential implications of releasing individuals, including convicted terrorists, into society.
The incident involving the escape of over 6,000 inmates amidst violent protests underscores the significant security challenges facing Mozambique in the wake of post-election turmoil. The loss of life and injuries reported during the confrontations, alongside the release of convicted felons, including terrorists, raises urgent concerns for public safety. Authorities are now tasked with managing the situation, ensuring the capture of fugitives, and addressing the underlying discontent stemming from the electoral process.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
