– Police officers are also accused of stealing victims’ belongings
By Noémia Mendes
Maputo (MOZTIMES) – The police operation that brought an end to the occupation of RENAMO’s national headquarters and the office of party president Ossufo Momade last Wednesday ended with six demobilised fighters shot, reports of looting, and illegal arrests.
Officers from the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR), deployed to clear the premises, are accused of excessive use of force, medical negligence, and theft of personal belongings from the 59 demobilised individuals.
According to Edgar Silva, the group’s representative, six former guerrillas were hit by bullets fired by RIU agents, two of whom are in serious condition.
“One of our colleagues is still hospitalised. He lost his eyeball after being shot in the face. Another was shot in the leg and can barely walk,” Silva told MOZTIMES.
The most seriously injured were only taken for medical assistance more than two hours later, and some received only basic treatment at the 18th Police Station in Lhanguene, where all the detainees were held for two days without adequate food or access to clean water.
“We only ate on Thursday afternoon, when we were released. We went hungry and thirsty, surviving on biscuits and juice bought from outside the station,” Silva said.
The demobilised fighters also alleged that, during the intervention, UIR officers looted computers, mobile phones, backpacks and cash. One member reported losing 69,000 meticais, and the group estimates total losses exceed 500,000 meticais.
After their release at around 5 pm on Thursday, the veterans were instructed to appear before the Judicial Court of Maputo City the following morning. However, upon arrival, they were informed that no case or hearing was scheduled. (NM)
