Two thousand seek refuge in Mossurize, central Mozambique

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Two thousand seek refuge in Mossurize, central Mozambique

3:39 CAT | 01 Sep 2016

DW / The displaced people live in these tents in Mossurize, Manica province

In the district headquarters of Mossurize, 334 tents have been set up to accommodate families fleeing attacks on villages in Manica province, central Mozambique. They accuse Renamo gunmen of torture, theft and vandalism.

In total, more than 1,600 adults and more than 400 children have sought refuge.

The displaced say they fled their villages because of attacks and threats from armed men from Mozambique’s largest opposition party, the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo), leaving behind everything they had – homes, livestock and crops.

Manuel Zondiua says his village was the target of attacks.

Mhoje_mossurizerefsdaytoday_photo_jpg — The everyday life of displaced people in the Mossurize camp

“We fled from enemies of our areas – Renamo bandits. Renamo men beat us and we felt it was better to come here. The government gives us food and we feel safe as well,” he says.

Maria Jossefa says that the armed men, besides torturing people, demanded money and animals, among other goods.

“We ran away from home because of Renamo. They were beating people and stealing money, cattle, goats and chickens,” says Jossefa. Interviewees said the gunmen also destroyed bridges and police and health posts.

Police blames Renamo too

According to the head of the group, Elias Johane, hundreds of people fled the five localities and administrative posts most affected by the political and military tension, including Chiurairue, Dacata, Chikwekwete, Garagwa and Chirera.

“They fled the war. Others have been injured or killed. Many people fled here, because most are members of Frelimo [Liberation Front of Mozambique],” says Johane.

Armed men attacked the Mussorize district again at the weekend, burning three homes. Manica Police attributed the attack to Renamo. According to Manica police spokesperson Elcídia Filipe, “the situation is already under control”.

Renamo has not released any statement on the attacks in Manica. DW Africa tried without success to contact the largest Mozambican opposition party for comment.

Source: Deutsche Welle