Over 1,500 Prisoners Escape In Mozambique Amid Post-election Unrest

More than 1,500 prisoners escaped from a high-security prison in Maputo on Wednesday, taking advantage of the unrest that has unfolded following the controversial confirmation of the Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections.

According to national police chief Bernardino Rafael, a total of 1,534 detainees escaped from the prison, which is located about 15 kilometers 9 miles from the capital.

Rafael reported that 33 individuals were killed and 15 others wounded in clashes with prison staff during the escape attempt.

A manhunt, supported by the army, resulted in the arrest of approximately 150 of the fugitives. Among the escapees, around 30 are believed to be linked to armed groups involved in ongoing unrest and attacks in the northern province of Cabo Delgado over the past seven years.