Africa-Press – Mozambique. Seven protesters are being detained for alleged looting and vandalism of Tazetta Resources assets in Pebane, Zambézia, during protests demanding compliance with perceived social responsibility obligations.
The provincial commander of the PRM in Zambézia, Fabião Nhacololo, said that, despite rights enshrined in law, demonstrations could not be allowed to jeopardise public order and tranquillity. Some of the goods stolen from Tazetta Resources during the protests had already been recovered, he said, promising to carry out further searches.
While also acknowledging the protesters’ motivations, the Secretary of State for Zambézia, Cristina Fumo, condemned their behaviour and urged dialogue between the parties.
“We have to talk,” she said. “I believe that this demonstration made no provision for presenting complaints, with protesters immediately starting vandalising. Companies have their social responsibilities, but the community has to talk to managers.”
Town of Pebane is now heavily garrisoned by the Defence and Security Forces.
Tazetta Resources, which explores ore in Pebane district, is accused of not fulfilling its social responsibility over the last five years.
This situation provoked a wave of revolt last week and, in the midst of the protests, some protesters seized company assets, while the police were called to contain popular discontent.
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