This archive report was first published on 9 January 2020.
At least 21 people have been killed in violent attacks in central Mozambique since August 2019, with authorities attributing the violence to members of the opposition Renamo's armed wing.
On January 8, 2020, Mozambique authorities detained six opposition members, including a member of Renamo's municipal assembly and the head of Marromeu Youth wing, for allegedly being involved in the attacks.
The group was arrested on its way to Nhamatanda district, the alleged scene of the attacks, according to Voice of America, quoting local police.
One of the group's members was hospitalized after being shot during the operation, while the other five are being held at Sofala's Police Station.
The detained group denies any link to the attacks.
Meanwhile, Renamo's armed wing leader, André Matsangaíssa Júnior, has threatened to carry out more attacks in the central regions unless his kidnapped family members are freed.
Mr. Júnior, in an interview with DW Radio on January 6, 2020, said he last had contact with the abducted family members on December 27, 2019, and that he has heard little from them since then.
He alleged that the kidnappers told him they belonged to Mozambique's security and defence forces and demanded a $2 million ransom and for him to surrender to authorities.
Renamo's leader, Mariano Nhongo, had earlier threatened attacks next week if opposition legislators agree to take oath of office with President Filipe Nyusi, following the October 15, 2019 election, which the country's opposition parties claim had irregularities.
