Prison Riot in Mozambique Leaves 33 Dead

A prison riot in Mozambique's capital, Maputo, on Christmas Day resulted in 33 deaths and 15 injuries, with approximately 1,534 inmates escaping. Police general commander Bernardino Rafael confirmed that only 150 of the escapees have been recaptured and raised concerns about potential increases in crime. The unrest is part of escalating civil disturbances following the October elections, which saw the ruling Frelimo party retain power amid accusations of election rigging from opposition groups. While Rafael suggested that protests outside the prison may have incited the riot, Justice Minister Helena Kida claimed the violence originated within the prison itself. Additionally, at least 21 people were reported killed in separate protests after the top court confirmed Frelimo’s election victory. Civil society groups have reported over 130 deaths in clashes related to the ongoing unrest.