Mozambican police stated that shots fired near Venâncio Mondlane’s convoy were aimed at dispersing a crowd. The incident occurred during a political event in Maputo, resulting in injuries among supporters. Ongoing social unrest in Mozambique, linked to election disputes, continues to impact the region.
On Thursday, Mozambican police clarified that gunfire directed at Venâncio Mondlane’s convoy was intended to disperse a crowd during a significant political event in Maputo. Police spokesperson Leonel Muchina emphasized that there was no attack on Mondlane, noting the operation was to prevent crowd escalation towards the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre where a political agreement was being signed. Crowd dispersal efforts included the use of tear gas.
The shooting incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. near Hulene as Mondlane’s motorcade traveled along Julius Nyerere Avenue. Abdul Nariz, a member of Mondlane’s communications team, reported experiencing live fire and explosives, which necessitated their retreat due to safety concerns.
Injuries were reported among Mondlane’s supporters, with governmental sources attributing these to panic if not directly from gunfire, suggesting that many were hurt in the scramble. According to Muchina, authorities lacked information on bullet-related injuries but promised an investigation into the matter. The police noted the supporters had been obstructing traffic.
Meanwhile, a monitoring organization, Plataforma Decide, claimed at least 16 individuals, including minors, were shot during the disturbance associated with Mondlane’s march. In response to the incident, demonstrators obstructed a main thoroughfare leading to the capital’s suburbs, coinciding with the day a political commitment targeted at resolving post-election tensions was being formalized.
In summary, Mozambican police have clarified their actions during a controversial incident involving Venâncio Mondlane’s convoy, asserting that the gunfire aimed to control a crowd rather than targeting Mondlane directly. The situation highlights the ongoing social unrest in Mozambique, with significant violence and injuries reported during protests arising from contested election results. Further investigations into the incident and its implications on public safety are anticipated, as demonstrations continue across the nation.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
