Mozambique faces chaos as more than 1,500 prisoners escape from a Maputo facility amid violent protests stemming from controversial election outcomes. With rising casualties and ongoing unrest, the nation's security is under significant strain.
Mass Prison Break in Mozambique Amidst Escalating Political Unrest
Mass Prison Break in Mozambique Amidst Escalating Political Unrest
Over 1,500 inmates flee as protests erupt following disputed election results in Mozambique’s capital.
More than 1,500 inmates have reportedly escaped from a prison in Mozambique's capital, Maputo, spurred by escalating protests against the country's controversial election results, according to police sources. Clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement have led to at least 33 fatalities and numerous injuries, as highlighted by police chief Bernardino Rafael at a recent press briefing. The unrest intensified following the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s success in the October presidential elections.
On Wednesday, anti-government demonstrators approached the prison, using the protests to breach the facility's walls and facilitate a mass escape. The turmoil follows a series of protests ignited on Monday, when Mozambique's highest court upheld Frelimo's candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the election victor, albeit with a revised vote margin. Initial counts indicated Chapo receiving 71% of the votes compared to his rival, Venâncio Mondlane, who garnered 20%. However, the constitutional court later adjusted these figures to 65% and 24% respectively.
A BBC correspondent reported Maputo appeared deserted as businesses shuttered in anticipation of further violence, marking one of the most severe periods of unrest since Frelimo’s ascendance to power nearly five decades ago. The turmoil has seen significant damage to public and private properties, including looted offices, police stations, and burned factories across the nation. The interior minister noted that in recent days alone, over 21 individuals have lost their lives as violence escalates.
Mondlane, who has since fled Mozambique, has urged his followers to protest what he claims is electoral fraud. In a recent social media address, he warned of a potential "new popular uprising" if the election results were not annulled. The ongoing unrest has claimed approximately 150 lives over the past three months, underscoring the volatility of Mozambique's political landscape.
