Africa-Press – Angola. At least 21 inmates at the Luzia prison in Saurimo, Lunda-Sul Province, were released on Monday as part of the Presidential Pardon in celebration of the 50th anniversary of National Independence.
Dilma do Nascimento, the presiding judge of the Saurimo District Court, witnessed the ceremony.
During the event, Joaquim Miguel, the director of Luzia Prison, announced that the inmates’ release was due to compliance with Presidential Decree No. 261/25, dated December 8, 2025, which establishes the pardon.
Miguel explained that the pardon was granted by President João Lourenço and urged the beneficiaries to take advantage of their newfound freedom to reintegrate into society, find employment, and adopt dignified behavior.
The presiding judge on her turn, urged the former inmates to be useful to society, remain firm in the face of adversity, and avoid illegal activities.
The magistrate emphasized that crime does not pay, adding that the beneficiaries had acquired various professional skills during their time in prison. Therefore, she encouraged them to apply their knowledge to create self-employment opportunities and support their families.
Gildo Paulo, representing those pardoned, thanked the President of the Republic for the gesture. He guaranteed that he would not commit crimes again and expressed his intention to fully reintegrate into society and his family.
He also said he intends to open a motorcycle and car repair shop based on the professional training he received in prison.
Luzia Prison currently houses 481 inmates, 291 of whom are convicted criminals and 190 of whom are detainees. It is located about 20 kilometers from the city of Saurimo.
The prison has modern monitoring equipment, arts and crafts areas, male and female housing blocks, a medical center, a laundry room, dining halls, an industrial kitchen, and a bakery, among other facilities.
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