Mozambique’s government has initiated a large-scale search operation, with military support, to recapture over 1,500 prisoners who escaped from a high-security prison in Maputo on Christmas Day. As of Wednesday evening, authorities had managed to recapture at least 150 fugitives, though a significant number remain on the run.
The prison break occurred during the third day of escalating unrest that has swept the capital, following the confirmation of Frelimo party’s victory in the controversial October presidential elections. The confirmation of the election results, despite widespread allegations of irregularities, has sparked protests across the country. Critics, including opposition leaders, have claimed the elections were rigged, intensifying the social and political tensions.
National police chief Bernardino Rafael reported that 33 inmates were killed as they attempted to escape, with an additional 15 prisoners wounded in violent clashes with prison staff. Authorities confirmed that a total of 1,534 detainees escaped from the facility, located just 15 kilometers from Maputo.
Among the escapees, around 30 individuals are believed to have links to armed groups that have been responsible for a series of violent attacks in northern Cabo Delgado province over the past seven years. These groups are suspected of contributing to the ongoing instability in the region, making the recapture operation a top priority.
“We are particularly concerned about this situation,” Rafael stated, highlighting the potential risks posed by the involvement of armed group affiliates in the escape.
The unrest intensified as groups of protesters gathered outside the prison on Wednesday, exacerbating the chaos inside. Inmates breached a wall and escaped in the confusion. Protesters, enraged by the confirmation of Frelimo’s election victory, have been protesting across Maputo, with barricades erected in key areas, severely disrupting movement in the capital. Public buildings, stores, ambulances, and businesses, including a drugstore, were set ablaze in the ensuing violence.
In several working-class neighborhoods of Maputo, some demonstrators took to the streets, setting up tables and celebrating Christmas with family and neighbors, further underlining the tension and unrest across the city.
The confirmation of Frelimo leader Daniel Chapo’s election win, with 65.17% of the vote, has sparked accusations of electoral fraud. Chapo’s main rival, exiled opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, has contested the results, claiming the election was rigged to favor the ruling party. This has heightened fears of further violence and political clashes between rival party supporters.
Reports from local NGOs suggest that at least 150 people have lost their lives in the unrest, further deepening the country’s political and social crisis. With both political and social divisions widening, the situation in Mozambique remains tense as authorities work to restore order and secure the safety of the public.