In Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, a prison riot resulted in 33 deaths, 15 injuries, and the escape of 1,534 inmates.
According to the country’s Police Commander-General, Bernardino Rafael, 150 escapees have been apprehended, CNN reports. The incident occurred amidst escalating civil unrest triggered by disputed results of the October elections, in which the ruling Frelimo party retained power.
The opposition claims the elections were rigged, further intensifying societal tensions. General Rafael stated that protests outside the prison may have incited the riot. However, Mozambique’s Minister of Justice, Helena Kida, asserted that the unrest began within the correctional facility and was unrelated to external demonstrations.
