NGO calls for inquiry into “inhumane” detention conditions of illegal immigrants in Maputo

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NGO calls for inquiry into “inhumane” detention conditions of illegal immigrants in Maputo

3:08 CAT | 22 Nov 2022

Image source: CDD Mozambique

The Mozambican non-governmental organisation the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) has denounced the detention of illegal immigrants in “inhumane conditions” at a police station in the city of Maputo.

“Dozens of illegal immigrants from various African countries are being held in completely inhumane conditions in the cells of the 18th Police Station of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM),” the statement reads.

According to the CDD, which says it has seen photos and footage concerning conditions, the immigrants, mostly young people, are “crowded in a tiny, filthy compartment” with “two small windows” and have only pieces of cardboard and fabric to lie on.

“Two small windows provide insufficient ventilation, a critical factor in the ongoing high temperatures” the organisation says, adding that in one of the videos, Guineans, Senegalese and Congolese can be heard calling for help.

The CDD says detention conditions for illegal immigrants are “a serious violation of human dignity”, noting that, in addition to African immigrants, there had also been a number of Asians, supposedly released “thanks to corruption schemes”.

“With a finger pointed at the police authorities, one of the detainees confirmed extortion with the promise of release”, but which never transpired, the CDD adds.

The entity requests that a commission of inquiry be created to investigate the case and determine responsibility.

Lusa contacted the National Migration Service (Senami) for clarification, but received no response.

Mozambique is often cited as a transit corridor for illegal immigrants heading for South Africa.

Source: Lusa