More than 1,500 inmates escaped from a prison in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, exploiting political unrest sparked by controversial election results, according to police.
In the chaos, 33 people were killed and 15 injured in clashes between guards and prisoners, police chief Bernardino Rafael confirmed. Authorities have since recaptured approximately 150 fugitives.
The escape unfolded on Wednesday as anti-government protesters gathered near the prison. Prisoners used the distraction to breach a wall and flee.
Protests have gripped Mozambique since October’s presidential elections, with tensions escalating after the constitutional court upheld the ruling Frelimo party’s victory on Monday. Frelimo has held power since Mozambique’s independence in 1975.
Official election results initially reported President Daniel Chapo won 71% of the vote compared to opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane’s 20%. The court’s revised figures lowered Chapo’s margin to 65% against Mondlane’s 24%.
Maputo has descended into turmoil, with streets resembling a ghost town on Christmas Eve. Businesses remain shuttered as residents avoid the violence. Across the country, Frelimo offices, police stations, and banks have been looted or set ablaze.
At least 21 people have been killed since the court ruling, adding to the 150 deaths recorded during three months of protests.
Mondlane, now in exile, has urged supporters to continue demonstrating, accusing the government of electoral fraud. In a recent statement, he warned of a potential “popular uprising” if the results are not overturned.
The unrest marks the most significant challenge to Frelimo’s authority in nearly five decades.