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February 05, 2025 – Mozambique –
Mozambican blogger Albino José Sibia, known online as “Mano Shottas,” was fatally shot by police while livestreaming a protest in Ressano Garcia, near the South African border. Sibia, 30, was documenting police dispersal of demonstrators protesting environmental concerns related to chromium transport. During the livestream, he was shot twice in the back by a police officer. His final words, “Help. I got shot and they keep shooting… I am dying,” were broadcast live on Facebook. He died approximately four hours later while being transferred from a local clinic to a hospital.
Witnesses reported that before the shooting, an officer instructed Sibia to cease filming, stating there should be no record of the forthcoming actions. Sibia pretended to comply but continued recording, leading the officer to shoot him once, and then a second time after he had fallen.
The protest was against the transportation of chromium, which residents believed was contaminating their water supply. The Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) was deployed to disperse the demonstrators, leading to violent confrontations.
Two days later, during Sibia’s funeral on December 14, police opened fire on mourners, killing two individuals and injuring journalist Pedro Júnior, who was covering the event.
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) announced plans to take legal action against the state for the actions of its agents, emphasizing the need for justice for Sibia and his family.
These incidents have intensified concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists in Mozambique, particularly following the disputed October 2024 elections. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for accountability in Sibia’s murder and the attack on Pedro Júnior, urging credible investigations into these violations
Reference –
Blogger killed, editor missing as Mozambique’s press freedom crisis deepens
