Protest: Citizens vandalize Malova toll booth in outcry over shooting of motorists

The Malova toll booth, located in the Massinga district, Inhambane province, was vandalized this Tuesday, following a popular protest motivated by the alleged shooting of a motorist by agents of the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR).

According to local reports, the driver was attempting to avoid paying the toll when he was surprised by gunfire from officers stationed in the area. The incident sparked widespread outrage among local residents, who accuse the police force of disproportionate action and excessive use of force.

In response to the incident, dozens of people mobilized, erecting barricades with tires and stones on National Highway One, specifically in the Mahocha area, preventing vehicle traffic for several hours. Truck drivers were forced to stop, and many passengers were forced to continue their journey on foot.

Despite the presence of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM), the protesters refused to disperse, maintaining tension until they culminated in a direct attack on the toll booth structure. Equipment was destroyed and some of the facilities were damaged.

Moisés Nunes, the Road Fund's delegate in Inhambane, expressed dismay at the events, noting that tolls have been essential for road maintenance and supporting local development. He also emphasized that acts of this nature jeopardize the common good and called for calm and dialogue.

It's worth noting that this is the second time the Malova tollbooth has been destroyed. The first occurred in 2023, during protests related to the results of the local elections.

The PRM has already opened an investigation to determine responsibility, both with regard to the shooting of the motorist and the subsequent acts of vandalism.