At Least 6,000 Inmates Escape from High-Security Prison in Mozambique After Rebellion**

MAPUTO, Mozambique (AP) — On Christmas Day, a violent rebellion led to the escape of at least 6,000 inmates from a high-security prison in Mozambique's capital, Maputo. The country's police chief, Bernardino Rafael, confirmed the escape and reported that 33 prisoners were killed, and 15 others were injured during a confrontation with security forces.

The mass escape occurred amid widespread unrest following the confirmation of the ruling Frelimo party’s victory in the October 9 elections. The protests have escalated into violent riots, with police cars, stations, and public infrastructure being destroyed across the country.

The incident took place at Maputo Central Prison, located 14 kilometers southwest of the capital, and began around midday on Wednesday. Rafael explained that the escape was sparked by "agitation" from a group of "subversive protesters" nearby. The protesters demanded that the prisoners be released. The situation escalated when inmates seized weapons from prison guards and began freeing fellow detainees. Protests led to the collapse of a prison wall, enabling the prisoners to flee.

The police chief has called for the voluntary surrender of the escaped prisoners and urged the public to be alert and report any sightings of the fugitives.

Social media videos have surfaced showing the dramatic moments when the inmates escaped. Other footage captures prisoners being apprehended by military personnel and prison guards. Many of the escaped prisoners attempted to hide in nearby homes, though some were unsuccessful and were soon detained.

One of the prisoners, still wearing handcuffs on his right wrist, was filmed in an amateur video explaining that he had been in the prison's disciplinary section and was freed by other inmates.

The escape and subsequent unrest reflect the ongoing instability in Mozambique, which has seen escalating violence in the wake of the disputed election results.
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