Mocimboa da Praia disturbances: Attackers officially charged

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Mocimboa da Praia disturbances: Attackers officially charged

2:29 CAT | 11 May 2018

File photo: Notícias

The provincial prosecutor of Cabo Delgado has charged more than two hundred suspects with being part of the armed group that has been carrying out attacks in Mocimboa da Praia and in the districts of Palma and Nangade.

The case was then referred to the province’s Judicial Court, which will set the date of the trial.

Those implicated are charged with crimes including conspiracy to commit, possession and use of prohibited weapons, with potential sentences of 20 to 24 years in prison. The indictees are also accused of qualified robbery, since they not only attacked but also looted goods, and raped the victims with the help of weapons such as machetes and axes.

Another crime listed is that of arson, since after plundering the accused set fire to homes and other public and private enterprises.

Of the 214 defendants, 153 are in custody and 61 are on bail subject to proof of identity and residence, the court feeling there was no reason to keep them in jail.

The bailed group includes 10 women Also among the accused are 32 Tanzanian nationals, none of whom were granted bail.

A formal and definitive accusation falls on the armed men who staged attacks on October 5, 6 and 7 of last year, as they were the first to be detained in a prompt and swift police response. The other indicteees which have been in the course of being arrested are being held accountable in the various autonomous criminal procedures processes in preparation.

ALSO READ: Mocímboa da Praia: Is attack problem under control?

Source: Notícias