Vandalism of Nametil Health Centre Highlights Ongoing Instability in Mozambique
The Nametil health centre in Mogovolas, Nampula, was vandalized by unknown assailants, causing extensive damage and leading to one patient’s death. This attack is part of ongoing violence linked to unrest following disputed elections. Separately, an attempted assault on a police post in Quinga was foiled due to timely police preparation.
In the northern Mozambican province of Nampula, the Nametil health centre in Mogovolas district has suffered a vandalism attack by unknown assailants. According to a report from the independent news outlet “Carta de Mocambique,” the attackers, armed with various weapons including Molotov cocktails, caused significant damage to the pharmacy, laboratories, storeroom, and the pediatric ward, while also setting some medicine ablaze.
Tragically, one patient undergoing treatment at the Nametil centre died due to the incident. In a state of fear, the nurses on duty fled the health facility seeking safety. This incident is not isolated, as Nametil has previously experienced violence related to unrest following last October’s contested general elections, which many believe to be fraudulent.
In related news from the Nampula district of Liupo, “Carta de Mocambique” reports that an attempted assault on the police command in the Quinga administrative post by a group of eleven men was thwarted, thanks to timely intel that allowed police to prepare. Quinga had been under a lapse of governmental control when a supporter of former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane declared himself “Regulo” (chief) and pursued government officials.
The Liupo district government effectively restored order to Quinga with the assistance of riot police in January, showcasing ongoing challenges in maintaining security in the region amidst instability.
The vandalism of the Nametil health centre underscores the ongoing violence and instability in Mozambique, particularly in the aftermath of contentious elections. The tragic loss of a patient highlights the serious implications of such attacks on essential health services. Additionally, the thwarted assault in Quinga demonstrates the persistent efforts by local authorities to regain control and ensure safety amid ongoing unrest.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
