Mozambique: Treasurer Charged with Security Offences Amid Allegations of Illegal Detention

Gloria Nobre Chire, treasurer to former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, was charged with state security offenses. She was unlawfully detained for 48 hours and denied access to legal counsel until intervention by the Bar Association. Mondlane claims she is a political prisoner, while details of her charges have not been disclosed.

Gloria Nobre Chire, the treasurer for former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, has been formally charged by the Mozambican Public Prosecutor’s Office with state security offenses and criminal conspiracy. Her lawyer, Mutota Escova, confirmed these charges in a report from the independent news outlet “Mediafax”.

Chire was apprehended at her residence in the Alto Mae region of Maputo and was reportedly held unlawfully for 48 hours at a police facility in Maputo port, during which time she was denied contact with her family. Despite attempts by three lawyers to reach her, the police refused access, violating legal procedures until intervention by the Mozambican Bar Association allowed her family to finally speak with her on Friday morning.

Mutota Escova characterized the detention as illegal, pointing out that the arrest warrant dates back to late February and had never been shown to Chire prior to her arrest. He expressed confusion over the delayed execution of this warrant and criticized the police’s conduct as unacceptable. To secure legal representation for Chire, the Bar Association approached the Attorney-General’s Office (PGR), which subsequently facilitated access for her attorneys and family.

Venancio Mondlane has labeled Chire a “political prisoner” who is enduring what he describes as “political harassment.” However, the police and prosecution have yet to clarify the specific security offenses for which she is accused.

In summary, Gloria Nobre Chire has been charged with crimes against state security, amidst claims of unlawful detention and lack of legal representation. Her lawyer highlights procedural violations by the police, and she is considered a political prisoner by her associate, Venancio Mondlane. The situation raises concerns over legal and human rights within Mozambique’s law enforcement practices.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com