On Christmas Day, a high-security prison in Maputo, Mozambique, witnessed a mass escape of at least 6,000 inmates following a rebellion, according to the country's police chief. The incident occurred amidst widespread post-election riots and violence that have been plaguing the nation.
Police Chief Bernardino Rafael reported that during the escape, thirty-three prisoners lost their lives, and 15 others sustained injuries in a confrontation with security forces. The chaos unfolded during violent protests that resulted in the destruction of police cars, stations, and public infrastructure after the ruling Frelimo party was confirmed as the winner of the Oct. 9 elections by the Constitutional Council.
The escape from the Maputo Central Prison, situated 14 km southwest of the capital, commenced around midday on Wednesday following agitation by a group of subversive protesters nearby. Rafael mentioned that the prisoners managed to seize weapons from prison warders and began freeing other detainees.
Rafael expressed concern over the release of 29 convicted terrorists from the prison and urged for the voluntary surrender of the escaped prisoners. He also emphasized the importance of informing the public about the fugitives.
Various videos circulating on social media captured the moment the inmates fled the prison, as well as the subsequent captures made by military personnel and prison guards. While some prisoners attempted to seek refuge in homes, many were apprehended. One video showed a prisoner with handcuffs on his right wrist claiming to have been released by fellow inmates from the disciplinary section of the maximum security prison.
The situation remains tense in Mozambique as authorities work to locate and detain the escaped prisoners. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing the country amidst the ongoing political turmoil and civil unrest.
