Over 6,000 Inmates Escape from Maputo Prison Amid Political Unrest
On Christmas Day in Mozambique, over 6,000 inmates escaped from a high-security prison during post-election riots. Police reported 33 casualties and 15 injuries due to violent protests against the ruling Frelimo party’s electoral victory. Inmates seized weapons, leading to their escape, including 29 convicted terrorists, prompting widespread safety concerns.
On Christmas Day, a significant breach occurred at a high-security prison in Maputo, Mozambique, resulting in the escape of over 6,000 inmates. This mass exodus coincided with widespread protests and unrest following the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the recent elections. Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael reported that the upheaval led to multiple fatalities, with 33 prisoners dead and 15 injured during clashes with security forces. The riotous protests saw the destruction of police vehicles and public infrastructure.
The escape from the facility commenced around midday and was reportedly incited by a faction of ‘subversive protesters.’ It appears that inmates seized weaponry from prison officers, facilitating the liberation of their fellow detainees. Among those freed were 29 convicted terrorists, raising severe security concerns within the nation. General Rafael expressed apprehension regarding the impacts of these events on public safety and the community significantly, urging citizens to report sightings of the fugitives.
Video footage capturing the jailbreak circulated on social media platforms, illustrating inmates fleeing the scene while other recordings documented the capture efforts by military personnel and prison guards. Many of the escaped inmates attempted to conceal themselves within local residences but met with varying degrees of success, as some were recaptured.
This alarming situation arises against a backdrop of escalating political tension in Mozambique. Following the elections on October 9, the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s win incited widespread riots across the country. The unrest has manifested in violent protests that have damaged infrastructure and heightened public safety concerns. The prison incident not only underscores the immediate risks posed by the escapees, including those classified as terrorists but also adds complexity to the ongoing political instability.
In summary, the events surrounding the mass escape of over 6,000 inmates from a high-security prison in Mozambique present significant challenges for the country. This incident occurred amidst violent protests following the recent elections, resulting in casualties and security breaches. The involvement of congregated crowds and the involvement of armed inmates illustrates profound vulnerabilities within the prison system and raises alarm regarding public safety, especially considering the release of dangerous individuals.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
