Three more protestors were killed by police on Saturday, bringing the death toll to 13 since election-related demonstrations erupted across Mozambique. The protests, which began on October 18, have intensified, with Nampula Province becoming a focal point for the unrest. Two people were fatally shot in Nampula city, and a third person was killed in Mecuburi town during confrontations on Saturday. Numerous demonstrators were detained by police in Nampula city, Mecuburi, and Namialo.
In the Waresta and Trim Trim markets of Nampula city, two demonstrators were shot dead—one of whom was killed while eating lunch. Over ten individuals were treated at Nampula Central Hospital for bullet wounds following the violent encounters.
In Mecuburi, the protests turned violent as demonstrators reportedly damaged local Frelimo Party offices. Members of the PODEMOS opposition party allegedly destroyed windows, equipment, and food supplies within the office. In response, police employed tear gas, rubber bullets, and live rounds, resulting in the death of at least one demonstrator. Some local sources suggest additional fatalities occurred, although this remains unconfirmed.
Outrage over the police actions in Mecuburi led demonstrators to set fire to the home of the officer who reportedly fired the fatal shot. The house was completely destroyed.
As the situation escalated beyond the control of local authorities, police reinforcements from Nampula were dispatched to support the fatigued local forces, who were reportedly running low on ammunition and at risk of being overpowered by protestors. Reinforcements were positioned strategically throughout the town, with the heaviest presence assigned to protect the Frelimo Party office from further attacks.
In Namialo, Meconta district, demonstrators blocked a key national highway, severing transportation links between Nampula city, coastal regions, and the northern districts, including the Cabo Delgado province. The demonstrations in Namialo began early and continued through the afternoon, severely disrupting local infrastructure.
Meanwhile, in Maputo, police used tear gas to disperse a peaceful demonstration by Muslim and Hindu communities protesting the election results and calling for action on widespread issues, including corruption and kidnappings. Despite initially cooperating with police, the demonstrators were redirected into a tear gas barrage, leading to injuries.
The Medical Association of Mozambique and the Order of Doctors have condemned police tactics, stating that the pattern of bullet wounds indicates an intent to kill rather than subdue. They report that, between October 18 and 26, 10 citizens were killed and 73 injured. Since then, another five fatalities have been recorded.