France Probes TotalEnergies for Manslaughter Over Mozambique Attack

French prosecutors have launched a manslaughter investigation against TotalEnergies related to a 2021 attack in Mozambique, where numerous fatalities occurred. Survivors and relatives allege the company failed to ensure the safety of its subcontractors. TotalEnergies halted a significant gas project after the attack but seeks to restart it amid humanitarian concerns.

French prosecutors have initiated a manslaughter investigation against TotalEnergies following a violent jihadist attack in Mozambique in 2021. The legal proceeding was prompted by claims from survivors and relatives of the victims, who charged the company with neglecting to protect its subcontractors. In response, the complainants expressed relief, fearing that TotalEnergies was too powerful to be held accountable.

The attack, attributed to Islamic State-linked militants, occurred in March 2021 in Palma, Mozambique, resulting in numerous fatalities and widespread panic. The duration of the assault saw various victims lose their lives dramatically. TotalEnergies halted its $20 billion liquefied natural gas project post-attack but is contemplating its resumption.

The investigation addresses allegations of involuntary manslaughter and failure to assist individuals in peril. Survivors and families of victims criticized TotalEnergies for its purported lack of safety measures for subcontractors prior to the attack. Furthermore, the company’s refusal to supply fuel to a security firm facilitating rescues during the incident has also been scrutinized.

Attorneys for the victims remarked that the commencement of the inquiry symbolizes progress for the victims of the Palma tragedy. They emphasized their clients’ desire for justice in an instance highlighting the prioritization of economic interests over human safety. Survivors have recounted harrowing tales of abandonment during the ordeal.

Post-attack, security forces from Rwanda and other nations supported Mozambican efforts to curb violence in Cabo Delgado, while TotalEnergies received backing for its project, including a substantial loan from the US Export-Import Bank. Several non-governmental organizations voiced their opposition to the project’s continuation, citing significant human rights concerns linked to TotalEnergies’ operations.

The initiation of a manslaughter investigation against TotalEnergies in France marks a significant development concerning the 2021 Mozambique attack. Survivors and family members have expressed relief at the action taken, highlighting lingering concerns over corporate accountability in crisis situations. Furthermore, despite TotalEnergies’ intentions to resume operations in Mozambique, calls for ethical considerations surrounding human rights and safety continue to grow amidst ongoing scrutiny.

Original Source: www.sanfordherald.com