South Africans React To Mozambique Prison Break, “They’re Coming Here!”

South Africans are on high alert after reports that 6,000 prisoners escaped as tensions continue to rise in Mozambique. The country is in the middle of mass protests following the announcement of the recent election results. The ruling party, Frelimo, were declared the winner, but violent protests across the country greeted the announcement. The protests also negatively affected the South Africa economy, as it forced the closure of the Lebombo border.

SABC News reports that 6,000 prisoners have escaped the Maximum Security Prison in Machava Suburb, Maputo.

Other social media posts indicate that the number is only 2,500. The prisoners managed to overpower guards and escaped with a number of AK47 rifles on Christmas Day.

It’s also been reported that civilians assisted the prisoners in making their escapes.

Social media users are not only worried that so many dangerous prisoners are out on the streets but also about where they could go next. Many South Africans are under the impression that they will enter the country and commit crimes here, given how easy it is to cross the border illegally. Citizens also have little faith in the government’s ability to deal with the matter, and recently criticised ruling ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula for congratulating Frelimo on their victory (a fellow former liberation movement).

The South African government spoke up about the violent protests in Mozambique. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation expressed concern about the disruptive protests. The department called for calm in the country and urged the Mozambican government to commit to dialogue.