Violence in Mozambique devastates BD businesses

NN Desk :

The Bangladeshi community in Mozambique is facing widespread looting and violence, leaving them gripped by fear and financial devastation. The unrest was triggered by a court ruling on Mozambique’s presidential election results, leading to violent protests that targeted businesses and homes.

Obaidul Haque Chowdhury, who moved to Mozambique in 2017, lost goods worth Tk1.5 crore when his three grocery stores in Maputo were completely looted. Similarly, Mohammad Yasin, who invested Tk5 crore in businesses, recounted losing everything to looters, including goods, shelves, and even refrigerator motors, reports UNB.

The violence erupted after opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane rejected the Constitutional Court’s decision upholding the election of Daniel Chapo from the ruling FRELIMO Party. Mondlane called for an uprising, which led to unrest in major cities like Maputo. Nearly 300 businesses owned by over 200 Bangladeshis have been ransacked, with losses running into crores.

Anisur Rahman, convener of the Bangladeshi community, described the situation as dire, with local police and the military failing to act and, in some cases, allegedly aiding the looters. He noted that homes have also been targeted, forcing residents to organise self-defence with support from Pakistanis, Somalis, and Indians.

Mujibul Karim, another victim, shared that he lost everything and now feels deeply insecure. Many Bangladeshis have resorted to guarding their homes at night, while others are planning to return to Bangladesh. Travel has become dangerous, as gas stations are shut down or burned.

The Bangladesh High Commission in Portugal is in regular contact with the affected community and has reported the crisis to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Laila Muntazeri Dina, charge d’affaires in Lisbon, stated that further steps would depend on directives from the ministry.

As Mozambique’s crisis deepens, the Bangladeshi community remains in fear and uncertainty, struggling to safeguard their lives and livelihoods amidst the chaos.