Mozambique Faces Security Crisis After 1,500 Inmates Flee High-Security Prison

The Mozambican government has confirmed a significant prison break on December 25, where over 1,500 inmates escaped from the high-security Machava prison located near the capital, Maputo.

This incident occurred against ongoing post-election violence following the Constitutional Council’s affirmation of Daniel Chapo’s election victory with 65% of the vote.

Police Chief Bernardino Rafael reported that 1,534 prisoners managed to flee, with only 150 having been recaptured so far. The breakout led to violent confrontations between the escapees, prison staff, and police, resulting in 33 fatalities and 15 injuries. Video footage depicted crowds rushing out of the prison, with some individuals armed with weapons taken from guards.

Machava prison houses high-risk inmates, including jihadists associated with armed groups in Cabo Delgado. Among the escapees are at least 30 jihadists, including one individual classified as “highly dangerous,” heightening security concerns.

The election-related violence has claimed 248 lives over the past two months, according to the NGO Plataforma Decide.

Frances Ibiefo

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