More than 6000 prisoners escape high-security prison in Mozambique

A riot broke out at a high-security prison in Mozambique's capital on Christmas Day, leading to the escape of at least 6,000 inmates. The country's police chief stated that this incident occurred amidst ongoing widespread unrest and violence following the nation's elections. During the event, clashes between security forces and prisoners resulted in 33 inmate deaths and 15 injuries.

According to Police Chief Bernardino Rafael, the jailbreak at the Maputo Central Prison, located 14 kilometers southwest of the capital, occurred around midday on Wednesday, triggered by the "incitement" of "a group of subversive protesters" nearby. Some inmates seized weapons from prison guards and began releasing other detainees. Rafael noted that these protesters created noise, demanding the release of convicted prisoners, ultimately causing the prison walls to collapse, allowing the prisoners to escape.

Rafael also expressed concern that 29 convicted terrorists being held at the prison were also released. He emphasized that they are deeply worried about this as a nation, the people of Mozambique, and members of the defense and security forces. Rafael called on the escaped prisoners to surrender to the authorities and asked the public to be aware of information about these fugitives.

Videos circulating on social media showed the moment prisoners fled the prison, as well as images of soldiers and prison guards apprehending inmates. Many prisoners attempted to hide in private homes, but some were unsuccessful and were eventually re-detained. In one video, a prisoner with his right hand still in handcuffs stated that he was being held in the prison's disciplinary section and was released by other inmates.