MAPUTO, Mozambique — A massive prison break in Mozambique’s capital has heightened tensions in a country already grappling with widespread unrest following contested elections.
At least 6,000 inmates escaped from the high-security Maputo Central Prison on Christmas Day, according to police chief Bernardino Rafael.
The escape unfolded during midday on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, after protests near the prison escalated into a violent confrontation.
A group of demonstrators reportedly incited “agitation” outside the facility, leading to the collapse of a wall and enabling inmates to flee.
Chief Rafael disclosed that 33 prisoners died, and 15 others were injured during clashes with security forces.
Some inmates armed themselves by seizing weapons from guards and subsequently began freeing others.
“A curious fact is that in that prison we had 29 convicted terrorists, who they released. We are worried, as a country, as Mozambicans, as members of the defence and security forces,” Rafael said.
He added that the protesters demanded the release of prisoners and contributed to the structural breach that enabled the mass escape.
National Security Concerns
The escape has intensified fears, particularly with the release of convicted terrorists among the fugitives.
Rafael urged the escaped prisoners to surrender and called on citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities in identifying and reporting those at large.
Videos circulating on social media captured chaotic scenes as inmates poured out of the facility.
Other footage depicted recapture efforts by military personnel and guards, including instances where prisoners were apprehended while attempting to hide in nearby homes.
In one widely shared video, a prisoner still wearing handcuffs recounted how he was released from the disciplinary section by fellow inmates.
Unrest Following Disputed Elections
The prison break comes amid a backdrop of escalating violence and unrest after Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed the ruling Frelimo party as the winner of the contentious October 9 elections.
Protesters have targeted police stations, vehicles, and infrastructure, further destabilising the nation.
The ruling Frelimo party has faced allegations of electoral fraud and suppression, intensifying anger among opposition supporters.
The riots have spread across the country, straining law enforcement and security resources.
Government Response
Authorities are working to recapture the escaped prisoners and restore order.
Police chief Rafael has called on citizens to avoid harbouring fugitives, emphasising the need for collective efforts to maintain public safety.
The incident underscores the broader challenges facing Mozambique, where political tensions and security threats have increasingly destabilised the nation.
As the search for thousands of escaped prisoners continues, the government’s ability to address these compounded crises will remain under intense scrutiny.
