Order restored in central Maputo, but outlying neighbourhoods remain tense
Mozambique’s Defence and Security Forces (FDS), led primarily by police units, restored order in central Maputo after a morning of unrest. Though calm has returned to key areas, the risk of further clashes remains high, and security forces continue to maintain a strong presence in strategic and sensitive zones.
Order was reestablished along Eduardo Mondlane and Amílcar Cabral avenues—where demonstrators had gathered—after roughly 4 to 5 hours of tension. Currently, only FDS vehicles and ambulances are moving through the city, with emergency services transporting the injured from the outskirts to Maputo Central Hospital.
However, pockets of unrest persist on Joaquim Chissano Avenue, where small groups of demonstrators continue to gather. The situation remains particularly critical in neighbourhoods such as Polana Caniço, Hulene, Xiquelene, and the Maquinag area leading to Matola, where police are actively dispersing protesters.
As night approaches, the risk of new confrontations is heightened, particularly in these outlying areas. FDS and military units have established a strong security perimeter around major access points to the city center. Julius Nyerere Avenue is now blocked at the Kenneth Kaunda and Marginal intersections, as well as at Mao-Tse-Tung Avenue, where police forces are heavily concentrated.
The FDS have also stationed units in key areas, including OMM Square, as well as along Joaquim Chissano and Vladimir Lenine avenues, with heightened security in the Polana Caniço area.
During peak tensions on Eduardo Mondlane Avenue, incidents of vandalism were reported, with some demonstrators looting shops along the route. The situation remains volatile, requiring constant monitoring by authorities.
