Mozambique’s Justice Minister Condemns Police Use of Live Ammunition Against Protesters

Mozambican Justice Minister Mateus Saize criticized the use of live ammunition by police against protesters as unacceptable. His comments were prompted by over 300 deaths during recent demonstrations about election fraud and rising living costs. The government advises using rubber bullets and tear gas instead, but live rounds have become a typical response from riot police.

The Mozambican Minister of Justice, Mateus Saize, recently stated that the deployment of live ammunition by police against demonstrators is unreasonable. His comments come in the wake of over 300 fatalities during mass protests sparked by former presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane. The protests were initially peaceful but escalated into chaos, with current grievances now focusing on rising living costs.

The “Decide” Electoral Platform reports that since the protests began after the October elections, at least 303 individuals have been killed due to police gunfire, and 619 others have suffered gunshot injuries. Additionally, authorities have detained approximately 4,228 individuals during these demonstrations.

Minister Saize emphasized that in cases of civil unrest, the government prefers non-lethal measures, such as rubber bullets and tear gas, rather than deadly force. However, he noted that the use of live ammunition has unfortunately become a common tactic, especially by the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR), which serves as the country’s riot police.

In conclusion, the statement by Minister Mateus Saize highlights the alarming trend of police employing live ammunition against protesters in Mozambique, which he deems unacceptable. With a significant number of casualties and detentions reported, the government’s preferred response to unrest should prioritize non-lethal methods. The current situation reflects a shift in protest focus toward economic issues amid rising tensions and calls for justice following the elections.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com