At Least 6,000 Inmates Escape Mozambique Jail Amid Post-election Riots

On Christmas Day, more than 6,000 inmates escaped from a high-security prison in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, following a rebellion, according to the country's police chief. This incident comes as widespread violence and riots continue to sweep across Mozambique in the aftermath of the October elections.

Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael reported that 33 prisoners were killed and 15 others injured during clashes with security forces. The mass escape occurred amid violent protests that resulted in the destruction of police vehicles, stations, and public infrastructure. These protests were sparked after the Mozambique Constitutional Council confirmed the ruling Frelimo party's victory in the October 9th elections.

The escape, which took place at Maputos central prison, located 14 kilometers southwest of the city, began around midday on Wednesday following "agitation" by a group of protesters, according to Rafael. During the unrest, prisoners seized weapons from guards and began releasing other detainees.

Rafael highlighted a concerning detail: the prison housed 29 convicted terrorists, who were among those freed during the escape. He expressed concern over the situation, saying, "As a country, we are worried - both as Mozambicans and as members of the defense and security forces."

The protests reportedly escalated to the point where a prison wall collapsed, providing an opportunity for inmates to escape. Rafael explained that the demonstrators had been demanding the release of prisoners held at the facility.

Authorities are now calling for the voluntary surrender of the escaped inmates and have urged the public to be vigilant and informed about the fugitives.

Videos circulating on social media captured scenes of inmates fleeing the prison, with some showing military personnel and prison guards making arrests. While some escapees attempted to hide in nearby homes, many were caught and detained. In one video, a prisoner, still wearing handcuffs on his right wrist, claimed he had been released from the prisons disciplinary section by other inmates.