The Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM) fired lethal bullets and tear gas at a caravan accompanying the mayor of Quelimane, Manuel de Araújo.

The police action followed a conversation with the mayor on the public highway, after he had been received by residents at the airport.

The mayor told the police that he had submitted documents for the march, but had not received an opinion from the authorities. The police claimed that there were no security conditions to authorize the march. The mayor criticized the fact that he hadn't received the opinion formally, i.e. via a written document. The police maintained their position. The mayor did not budge.

Faced with the confusion, the PRM fired to disperse the residents. In fact, the police had already tried to prevent the crowd from reaching the airport.

On arrival at Quelimane Airport, Manuel de Araújo spoke to residents saying that he would follow the march if the police tried to stop it.