Mozambique Artisanal Miners Killings: Police Under Scrutiny

Clashes between police and artisanal miners in Mozambique’s Nampula province on December 29, 2025, resulted in the deaths of at least three dozen individuals, raising urgent calls for accountability. Human Rights Watch reports that authorities must conduct an impartial investigation to ensure justice for victims and their families amid conflicting narratives regarding the events in the Marraca mining area, Iuluti, Mogovolas district. Excessive Force and Community Impact Local civil society groups identified at least 38 fatalities, while police confirmed only seven deaths, including one officer. Evidence indicates the use of disproportionate and lethal force by law enforcement, resulting in both deaths and numerous injuries. Sheila Nhancale, an Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasised that “authorities must thoroughly and fairly investigate these killings and bring those responsible to justice to rebuild community trust.” Eyewitness accounts describe miners, many unaffiliated with political parties, being shot while pursuing livelihoods. Residents reported missing relatives and injured family members, including women and children, highlighting the deep trauma and fear imposed on the community. Past clashes, such as a May 2025 incident after mining bans were imposed, illustrate recurring tensions between authorities and small-scale miners. Disputed Narratives and Governance Failures Police claimed that violence erupted after a local militia and opposition supporters attacked a police camp, citing masked assailants with red headbands and blades. Civil society organisations counter that most victims were unarmed artisanal miners, and informal agreements had previously existed between miners and certain police officers regarding mining fees. Rapid escalation reportedly occurred when officers fired indiscriminately at crowds, demonstrating failure to manage disputes without resorting to lethal force. The United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms mandate that law enforcement prioritise nonviolent alternatives, using lethal force only as a last resort when life is at imminent risk. Mozambique’s repeated clashes with artisanal miners indicate systemic issues in applying these standards. International scrutiny and domestic reforms are critical to preventing further loss of life and ensuring transparent regulation of artisanal mining. Calls For Accountability International partners and civil society urge Mozambique to: Conduct a thorough and transparent investigation of the December 29 killings Hold accountable those responsible for excessive force Provide reparations and support to victims’ families Implement non-violent and clear mining regulations to prevent future conflicts Key Takeaways At least 38 artisanal miners were killed in Nampula province amid police clashes, with conflicting death reports from authorities. Evidence suggests excessive and lethal force was used, disproportionately affecting unarmed miners, including women and children. Disputed narratives highlight governance failures and weak dispute resolution mechanisms in artisanal mining zones. International human rights standards mandate nonviolent law enforcement and proportional use of force. Immediate action is needed to ensure accountability, reparations, and the establishment of safe mining practices.

Mozambique Artisanal Miners Killings: Police Under Scrutiny

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