A police officer from the Republic of Mozambique (PRM) has been arrested in the city of Nampula, accused of leading a dangerous gang of burglars and home robbers. The officer, identified only as a seconded member of the Rapale District Command, deserted five months ago and has since formed and led a criminal group made up of six members, all of whom have now been arrested.

According to the head of Public Relations at the PRM Provincial Command in Nampula, Dércio Amândio Samuel, the suspect is considered highly dangerous because he has a background in martial arts and a history of deviant behavior within the corporation.

“This is a member of the PRM who left the ranks and dedicated himself to crime, leading a gang that had been terrorizing residential neighborhoods in Nampula,” explained Samuel, quoted by the newspaper Ngani.

The police operation that culminated in the capture of the robbers also resulted in the seizure of two motorcycles used in the criminal incursions. The authorities are still looking for a firearm allegedly used by the group in several robberies.

Samuel assured that the PRM does not condone deviant behavior and that it is committed to “purifying the ranks”, assuring that any officer involved in crimes will be publicly presented and held accountable. “The police are working to regain the trust of citizens. No officer above the law will be protected,” the spokesman stressed.

The arrested officer acknowledged his involvement in the crimes and, in brief statements, expressed regret for his actions. Meanwhile, the PRM has opened disciplinary and criminal proceedings against the accused, and is investigating the exact number of robberies carried out under his leadership.

The case reinforces the challenge that the authorities face in combating corruption and crime within the state institutions themselves, at a time when the population is demanding more security and transparency from the forces of law and order.

(Photo DR)