A jailbreak in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, has left 33 people dead and 15 injured, with over 1,500 prisoners escaping during a suspected riot, authorities confirmed.
Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael reported that 150 of the escaped prisoners have been recaptured as security forces intensify efforts to locate the remaining fugitives.
The incident unfolded against the backdrop of escalating unrest following October’s disputed election, which saw the long-dominant Frelimo party retain power. Opposition groups allege widespread electoral fraud, fueling public anger and violent demonstrations. 
Rafael attributed the riot to external protests near the prison, but Justice Minister Helena Kida countered this claim, stating that the unrest began within the facility. “The confrontations after that resulted in 33 deaths and 15 injured in the vicinity of the jail,” Rafael said during a briefing.
Chaos Inside the Prison
According to the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), inmates overpowered guards and seized AK-47 rifles, enabling the mass escape. Local journalist Clemente Carlos speculated that the reduced number of guards on duty during the Christmas holiday season may have facilitated the jailbreak.
“The incident raises urgent questions about the state of security and the justice system in Mozambique,” Adriano Nuvunga, director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights, posted on X (formerly Twitter). He called for collaboration between authorities, civil society, and international partners to restore order and address systemic issues.
Wider Unrest
The jailbreak coincides with ongoing violence linked to the contested elections. At least 21 people, including two police officers, were killed in clashes on Monday and Tuesday, during which petrol stations, banks, and police stations were attacked.
Election monitoring group Plataforma Decide reported a total of 151 fatalities since October 21, reflecting the toll of political tensions in Mozambique.
Maputo remains under tight security, with armored vehicles patrolling deserted streets. The city is gripped by fear and uncertainty as residents face a precarious holiday season.
Read More:
