Over 1,500 prisoners escaped a prison in Maputo, Mozambique, amid unrest following disputed election results that confirmed Frelimo’s long-standing power. The escape resulted in violence, with casualties among both staff and inmates. Protests have intensified, prompting a government response that includes military support to restore order.
On Wednesday, more than 1,500 inmates escaped from a high-security prison in Maputo, Mozambique, amid escalating unrest following the controversial confirmation of the Frelimo party’s victory in the recent elections. National police chief Bernardino Rafael reported that 1,534 detainees fled the prison, located approximately 15 kilometers from the capital. The escape was marked by violent clashes, resulting in the death of 33 individuals and injuries to 15 others. As a response, a search operation supported by the army apprehended around 150 fugitives.
The unrest in Mozambique was ignited following the announcement of election results, in which Frelimo, the ruling party since 1975, secured victory with 65.17 percent of the vote. This figure was reported to be lower than initial results, prompting exiled opposition leader Venancio Mondlane to claim electoral fraud. The unrest has led to various violent occurrences, including the ransacking of businesses, the burning of vehicles, and widespread vandalism in Maputo, exacerbating an already volatile situation.
In conclusion, the mass jailbreak and subsequent unrest in Mozambique reflect deep political tensions and societal unrest stemming from disputed election results. The involvement of armed groups and the high casualty rate highlights the severity of the crisis. As violence continues to escalate, there is an urgent need for dialogue and conflict resolution to restore peace and stability in the nation.
Original Source: www.latintimes.com
