More than 6000 prisoners have escaped from a prison in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, amid ongoing political unrest following disputed election results, according to the police. Clashes during the escape left 33 people dead and 15 injured, police chief Bernardino Rafael announced during a press conference. Â
The chaos began on Monday after Mozambique’s constitutional court confirmed the ruling Frelimo party’s candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the winner of October’s presidential elections. The court revised Chapo’s margin of victory from 71% to 65%, while opposition candidate Venâncio Mondlane’s share increased from 20% to 24%. The decision reignited protests over alleged electoral fraud.
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On Wednesday, anti-government protesters approached the prison, creating an opportunity for inmates to knock down a wall and escape. Police have since recaptured around 150 of the fugitives. The unrest has also seen Frelimo’s offices, police stations, banks, and factories vandalised or set ablaze nationwide.
Mondlane, who has fled the country, continues to allege that the election was rigged. Since the protests began, at least 21 people have been killed, according to the interior minister. The government has vowed to restore order amidst the escalating violence.
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