Hundreds of inmates reportedly escaped from two correctional facilities in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, amid ongoing violent protests over disputed election results.
The prison break occurred on Wednesday in the Machava neighborhood, with approximately 150 inmates confirmed to have fled, according to local journalist Clemente Carlos. Speaking to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), Carlos described video footage showing one escapee — still in handcuffs — claiming to have been part of protests against the contested elections.
Carlos speculated that the Christmas holiday, which typically sees reduced staffing at such institutions, may have provided an opportunity for the escapes.
Escalating Unrest
The prison break coincides with a surge in violent demonstrations sparked by the Constitutional Court’s announcement on Monday that confirmed Daniel Chapo of the ruling Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) as the winner of the October 9 elections. Protesters allege the elections were marred by irregularities.
The violence has resulted in significant casualties. Interior Minister Pascoal Ronda reported 21 fatalities and 25 injuries over two days of unrest that included attacks on gas stations, police stations, and banks. Election monitoring group Plataforma Decide estimates the total death toll from the protests has reached 151 since October 21.
Adriano Nuvunga, director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights in Mozambique, raised alarm over the prison break, claiming on social media platform X that more than 2,500 detainees had escaped from high-security facilities, including Maputo Central Prison.
“This shocking incident raises urgent questions about the state of security and the justice system in Mozambique,” Nuvunga stated, calling for collaboration between authorities, civil society, and international partners to restore public safety and address systemic issues.
As of Wednesday evening, the Mozambican government had not issued an official statement regarding the prison escapes, leaving many unanswered questions about the security breach and measures to recapture the fugitives.
The country remains on edge, with the latest developments underscoring the broader challenges Mozambique faces in managing political tensions and ensuring public safety.