Mozambique Police Arrest 11 in Connection to Motorcycle Taxi Driver Murders
Mozambican police arrested 11 people for robbery and murder against motorcycle taxi drivers in Manica province. The suspects operated by luring drivers as passengers and ensuing violence. Authorities recovered stolen motorcycles and weaponry, while some arrested individuals confessed to selling stolen bikes. A community meeting aimed at preventing further crime and vigilante justice was also held.
The Mozambican police have apprehended 11 individuals involved in robbery and murder targeting motorcycle taxi drivers across multiple districts in Manica province. These arrests occurred in Gondola, Manica, Tambara, Mossurize, and the city of Chimoio. Authorities recovered seven stolen motorcycles, mobile phones, and blunt weapons during the operation.
According to PRM spokesperson Mouzinho Manasse, the gang members posed as passengers to lure motorcycle drivers to isolated areas. In these locations, they would threaten or assault the drivers, robbing them of their motorcycles and personal items.
Manasse confirmed that the police are actively seeking additional suspects linked to the ongoing violent crimes, revealing that some detainees confessed to selling the stolen motorcycles for 25,000 to 30,000 meticais (approximately $64).
Some accused individuals, however, denied any involvement in the crimes. For instance, Lanito Ernesto claimed he only resold bikes handed to him without committing murder. Other detainees expressed confusion regarding their arrests, stating they were unaware they were implicated in any criminal activity.
Reports indicate at least one individual has died due to robbery-related violence since January, while four suspected thieves were lynched by locals after being found with stolen bikes. This situation has raised serious concerns about mob justice in the area.
In response to rising crime, police in Chimoio convened a meeting with motorcycle taxi operators to encourage them to report suspicious activity. The goal is to combat violence and provide a platform for the community to voice concerns without resorting to vigilantism.
The recent arrests in Manica province highlight escalating violence targeting motorcycle taxi drivers, with 11 individuals now in police custody. While some have admitted to their crimes, others deny involvement. The police are taking proactive steps through community engagement to mitigate these violent incidents and prevent vigilante actions. The region continues to face challenges relating to crime, underscoring the need for vigilant police-community collaborations.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
