Mozambican Police Clarify Intent Behind Shots Fired Near Mondlane’s Motorcade

Mozambican police stated that shots fired near Venâncio Mondlane’s motorcade were aimed at dispersing a crowd, asserting there was no attack against him. The incident led to injuries amidst chaos, drawing attention to ongoing social unrest in Mozambique due to contested election results. Protests persist, amplified by grievances over rising living costs and government responses.

On Thursday, the Mozambican police clarified that shots fired near the convoy of Venâncio Mondlane were intended to disperse a gathering and prevent attendees from reaching the venue of a political agreement signing ceremony in Maputo. Police spokesperson Leonel Muchina emphasized, “There was no attack against Venâncio Mondlane.” He explained that tear gas and other conventional means were employed to manage the situation at the Joaquim Chissano Conference Centre.

The alarming events unfolded around 1:00 p.m. as Mondlane’s motorcade traveled through the Hulene neighborhood. Abdul Nariz, a member of Mondlane’s communications team, recounted their shock as heavily armed police began to fire at their vehicle. He relayed that they were forced to flee due to the immediate danger posed by the tear gas and live bullets.

Several individuals were reported injured, including a member of Mondlane’s team. According to police, injuries were primarily due to panic and chaos, as people stumbled and fell amid the distress of the confrontation. Muchina stated, “We do not have data on people who were injured by bullets, but if there are any, it will be the subject of an investigation.”

Muchina further indicated that Mondlane’s supporters were obstructing traffic on a major road in Maputo, prompting the police response. An independent organization, Plataforma Decide, reported that at least 16 individuals, including two children, suffered gunshot wounds during the gathering.

In reaction to the police actions, demonstrators blocked Julius Nyerere Avenue, a key route to Maputo’s suburbs, coinciding with a historic political agreement involving President Daniel Chapo and opposition parties. Meanwhile, heightened security measures were enforced on access routes to the conference center.

The unrest in Mozambique has escalated since October, primarily led by Mondlane’s protests against the disputed election results. Many citizens express concerns over rising living costs and ongoing social issues amid a pattern of demonstrations across the nation. Reports reveal that unrest has led to at least 353 fatalities, including numerous minors, and significant destruction to property, with government figures acknowledging at least 80 deaths and damage to numerous schools and health facilities.

In conclusion, the Mozambican police have attributed shots fired during Venâncio Mondlane’s motorcade as a preventive measure meant to disperse crowds. Despite the police’s assertion of no intent to harm, the event has raised significant concerns regarding public safety and the ongoing social unrest in Mozambique. With a rising death toll from associated protests and widespread public dissatisfaction, the situation warrants close monitoring as it unfolds.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com