More than 6,000 inmates escaped from a high-security prison in Maputo, Mozambique, on Christmas Day amid violent protests following the ruling party’s electoral victory. The unrest resulted in 33 inmate deaths and raised concerns over the release of convicted criminals, including terrorists. Calls for dialogue and violence cessation from the international community highlight the ongoing crisis.
On Christmas Day, over 6,000 inmates escaped from Maputo Central Prison in Mozambique following a rebellion amidst violent post-election protests. The unrest was incited by the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s election victory, with at least 33 inmates reported deceased during clashes with law enforcement. The escape occurred when prisoners seized weapons from guards and breached the prison walls amid riots against the government’s electoral results. Police Chief Bernardino Rafael expressed concerns over the release of 29 convicted terrorists among the escaped inmates, urging them to surrender voluntarily. Videos circulating on social media depicted the chaotic scenes of escape, while the Interior Minister revealed that unrest had been predominantly instigated by youthful supporters of the losing candidate, Venancio Mondlane. The international community, including U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, has called for dialogue and a cessation of violence to ensure a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis.
The recent escape from Maputo Central Prison is closely tied to the broader context of political unrest following Mozambique’s October elections. After the Constitutional Council upheld the electoral victory of the ruling Frelimo party, violent protests erupted, primarily driven by supporters of the losing candidate. The resultant chaos provided an opportunity for a mass prison escape, raising significant concerns regarding public safety, especially with the release of individuals convicted of serious crimes.
The escape of over 6,000 inmates from a high-security facility during turbulent political unrest underscores the severity of the situation in Mozambique. With law enforcement urging the escapees to return, and international bodies advocating for peace and dialogue, the nation stands at a crossroads where urgent action is required to restore order and public safety. The implications of these events could have lasting repercussions on Mozambique’s political landscape and societal stability.
Original Source: www.france24.com
