Roadblocks Return: Restoring Order or Reviving Corruption on Mozambique’s Roads?
The reactivation of 52 road checkpoints in Mozambique, which had been suspended for over two months following post-election protests, has sparked a heated debate about their real impact. While authorities argue that these checkpoints are essential for road safety and accident reduction, transport operators and civil society groups fear they could serve as a front for renewed corruption schemes.
In an interview with TORRE.News, Maputo City police spokesperson Leonel Muchina acknowledged ongoing corruption within the force but assured that internal measures were being taken to curb extortion of motorists.
“Officers caught engaging in corrupt activities will be held accountable,” Muchina stated, urging drivers not to participate in bribery schemes. “If a driver is in violation of the law, they should accept the legal penalties rather than resorting to corruption,” he added.
Public and intercity transport operators, represented by the Mozambican Association of Interurban and International Passenger Transport Operators (AMOTRANS), are historically among the most affected by police misconduct. While the association recognizes the need for stricter road controls, it fears that corruption will once again burden the sector, which is already struggling with economic difficulties.
“The measure can help curb reckless driving and reduce road accidents. But the police need to stop illegal demands. If fines were between 500 and 1,000 meticais, we could pay without issue. But the current amounts are too high and only encourage corruption,” said João Mutisse, AMOTRANS vice president.
Meanwhile, the Mozambican Association of Road Safety Victims (AMVIRO) sees the reopening of checkpoints as a necessary step to restore order to the roads, which have become increasingly chaotic in the absence of enforcement.
“The police need to regain public trust and change their behavior because corruption within the force is undeniable. Officers are currently being more cautious due to fear of public backlash,” said Joel Manhiça, AMVIRO’s spokesperson, urging the national police commander to reinforce ethical road safety education among officers.
Road accidents remain a major concern. According to the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, 310 people lost their lives in traffic accidents in the first half of 2024 alone. The statistics highlight the urgent need for effective road enforcement, but without it becoming a pretext for illicit practices.
The 52 checkpoints currently in place had been reduced to 23 last year under former Police Commander-General Bernardino Rafael, in an attempt to curb police abuses. However, with the appointment of a new commander, the checkpoints have been reinstated, reigniting the debate on whether this move signals a return to order or the resurgence of a "profitable business" for corrupt officers on Mozambique’s roads.
