Mozambique’s Post-Election Violence: Prison Break, Deadly Riots, And Attacks On Foreign Nationals

Mozambique is grappling with escalating violence and unrest following its disputed October election, culminating in a mass prison break and widespread attacks on businesses owned by foreign nationals, including Nigerians. The ongoing crisis has claimed nearly 300 lives, disrupted key industries, and raised urgent concerns about governance and public safety.

Jailbreak Amid Chaos

A violent prison riot in the capital, Maputo, has left 33 dead, 15 injured, and more than 6,000 prisoners escaped, according to Police General Commander Bernardino Rafael. The unrest, exacerbated by protests outside the correctional facility, resulted in inmates overpowering guards and seizing weapons. While 150 escapees have been recaptured, the remainder remain at large.

“This shocking incident raises urgent questions about the state of security and the justice system in Mozambique,” said Adriano Nuvunga, director of the Center for Democracy and Human Rights, in a statement on X.

Post-Election Violence Worsens

The prison break is part of broader unrest tied to Mozambique’s disputed election results, which extended the ruling Frelimo party’s decades-long grip on power. Opposition groups allege widespread vote-rigging, and demonstrations have turned deadly. Reports from Al Jazeera confirm that at least 21 people, including two police officers, were killed during attacks on banks, petrol stations, and police facilities earlier this week.

Election monitoring group Plataforma Decide estimates the nationwide death toll since October 21 has reached 151, while violence continues in regions like Nacala. Security forces have faced criticism for using live ammunition against protesters.

Foreign Nationals Targeted

In addition to the political turmoil, foreign nationals, particularly Nigerians, have been targeted. Businesses owned by Nigerians and other expatriates have been looted and destroyed. Mining operations, gas exports, and an aluminium mine were disrupted, significantly impacting the economy.

Gemfields Group Ltd., a major ruby mining operator in northern Mozambique, suspended activities after its site was breached by hundreds of protestors. The violence has also affected Mozambique’s financial markets, with the country’s Eurobond falling to its lowest value in over a year.

Government and International Reactions

President-elect Daniel Chapo, whose inauguration is set for January 15, has called for unity and dialogue. “We will work together on solutions to the problems generated by this sad situation,” he said, promising to be a “president of all” Mozambicans.

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged all parties to renounce violence and engage in meaningful discussions to resolve the crisis. Meanwhile, civil society organisations, including the Mozambique Bar Association, are calling for genuine compromises to restore peace.

Economic and Social Impacts

Despite signs of calm returning to Maputo, analysts warn that tensions could spike again during Chapo’s inauguration. A recent warehouse fire near the capital, reportedly caused by looting, resulted in 11 deaths, underscoring the ongoing volatility.

As Mozambique’s economy reels under the weight of the unrest, businesses and international partners are bracing for further disruption. With systemic issues at the heart of the crisis, the path to stability remains uncertain.