At least 6000 prisoners broke out of Maputo Central Prison, a high-security facility in Mozambique’s capital, on Christmas Day.

The police authorities in the country have described the escape as a “revolt,” deepening the crisis in a country already grappling with post-election violence, AlJazeera reports.

Police chief Bernardino Rafael confirmed the incident, stating, “They (prisoners) took advantage of the unrest to knock down a wall, allowing some people to flee.”

He added that 33 prisoners were killed, and 15 others were injured during confrontations with security forces.

Initially, officials reported 1,500 escapees, but that figure was revised to 6,000 on Friday.

Among the escapees were 29 “convicted terrorists” linked to the al-Shabab armed group, responsible for a prolonged insurgency in the northern Cabo Delgado province.

Weeks of protests and violence erupted after Mozambique’s October 9 elections, with opposition leader Venancio Mondlane rejecting the results. “Electoral justice” is Mondlane’s rallying cry as he continues to denounce the government.

The unrest has claimed at least 151 lives, with demonstrators and security forces clashing across cities.

Videos circulating on social media showed prisoners running through residential areas, some being recaptured by armed police.

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, expressed concern over the violence.

A statement from his spokesperson urged leaders to “defuse tensions” through dialogue and legal processes. Similarly, African Union chairperson Moussa Faki called for calm.

Justice Minister Helena Kida claimed the prison revolt started internally, denying external involvement by protesters. However, conflicting reports suggest outside agitation played a role.

The United States condemned the unrest, highlighting “significant irregularities” in the election process and demanding accountability for human rights violations.

Observers from various organisations have raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the polls.

Mondlane, communicating from exile, vowed to install himself as president on January 15, the same day president-elect Daniel Chapo is set to be inaugurated.

Meanwhile, Mozambique’s economy suffers as the violence deters tourists and disrupts businesses.

The situation remains volatile, with calls for an end to Frelimo’s decades-long rule growing louder amidst the chaos.

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