Official announcements from Mozambique's electoral commission or international observers

1,534 Inmates Escape Mozambique's Machava Prison; 33 Dead Amid Election Unrest

Dec 26, 2024, 12:19 AM

On December 25, more than 1,500 prisoners, specifically 1,534 inmates, escaped from the high-security Machava prison near Mozambique's capital, Maputo, amid ongoing protests over disputed presidential election results. The prison break occurred during the third day of unrest triggered by the controversial confirmation of the long-ruling Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections, which the opposition has denounced as fraudulent. According to Mozambique's police general commander, Bernardino Rafael, at least 33 people were killed and 15 injured during riots at the prison. Police have recaptured around 150 escapees so far. The mass escape has raised concerns about public safety, with authorities warning of a potential increase in crime in the capital.