Mozambique: Police Officers Arrested in Kidnapping and Murder Case

The Mozambican police have arrested seven individuals, including two police officers, for the kidnapping and murder of a businessman in Chokwe. The victim was abducted in March, with ransom demands leading to his murder. Investigations revealed complicity by local police, raising concerns about corruption. All suspects deny involvement amidst ongoing forensic examinations.

In a significant law enforcement development, the Mozambican police (PRM) announced on Wednesday the arrest of seven individuals linked to the kidnapping and subsequent murder of an Indian businessman in Chokwe. A spokesperson for the National Criminal Investigation Service (Sernic), Zaqueu Mucambe, confirmed that among the arrested, two officers from the Guija district police force were involved.

The victim, a 36-year-old businessman whose identity remains undisclosed, was abducted on Eduardo Mondlane Avenue in Chokwe on March 3, around 8:00 PM. Previously, Carlos Macuacua, the head of public relations for the Gaza police, stated that the kidnapping occurred right after the victim closed his shop, when armed assailants fired shots and forced him into a vehicle.

Mucambe revealed that the kidnappers demanded a ransom of two million meticais (approximately 31,000 US dollars). However, it remains uncertain whether any ransom was paid, as the victim was reportedly murdered shortly after the demand was made. His body was later discovered in a shallow grave located in Chivongoene, Guijá.

During the investigation, three of the kidnappers were captured at their residences, leading investigators to the site where they had held the victim. A forensic analysis is underway to establish the precise cause of death after the victim was recognized by his relatives. Overall, seven suspects have been detained, including the two police officers and several individuals from various professions such as business and transportation.

Responding to inquiries about the motives of the police officers, Mucambe indicated that they were motivated by “measureless ambition.” All detainees, aged between 32 and 45, have denied involvement, with some citing unrelated reasons for their arrests. For instance, one claimed to be an innocent vendor, while another cited a stolen cell phone as related to his detention. Sernic has reported the seizure of firearms, fraudulent documents, and two vehicles linked to the kidnapping.

The recent arrests by Mozambican police highlight a significant case of kidnapping and murder involving members of the police force. While the investigation continues, the motives behind the officers’ actions reveal a troubling element of corruption and ambition. This incident emphasizes the need for accountability within law enforcement and the importance of thorough investigations to ensure justice for victims and their families.

Original Source: clubofmozambique.com