Delgado Accused of Extorting Displaced Persons: Corruption and Criminal Networks Plague Mozambique

A Culture of Corruption in Mozambique

Mozambique is facing intense scrutiny after allegations emerged that a prominent businessman, Delgado, has been extorting displaced persons in the conflict-ridden Cabo Delgado province. This is just the latest example of the entrenched corruption and criminal networks that have plagued Mozambique for years.

A Complex Web of Relationships

A complex web of relationships between private sector actors, government officials, and criminal organizations has created an environment where organized crime thrives with relative impunity. Private sector actors in Mozambique are notorious for their close ties to the government, which often grants them a level of political protection that allows them to operate with minimal oversight.

Criminal Networks Operating in Mozambique

Criminal networks operating in Mozambique include:

• Local and foreign groups involved in illicit activities such as illegal timber, ivory, and fishing industries
  • Chinese criminal networks are particularly active in these markets
  • Tanzanian, Somali, Thai, Vietnamese, and Pakistani organized crime groups also have a presence
• al-Shabaab, an Islamist militant group responsible for numerous attacks in the Cabo Delgado province
  • The group reportedly finances itself through extortion, looting, and kidnapping for ransom

Weak Governance and Corruption

Despite Mozambique’s efforts to introduce legal reforms and create a more business-friendly environment, the government’s credibility in combating organized crime remains severely damaged by its handling of the “hidden debts” scandal. The country’s economic and financial environment is also under strain, with weak governance, corruption, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change exacerbating poverty and insecurity.

Foreign Investment: A Double-Edged Sword

Foreign investment remains a double-edged sword, as while it can provide opportunities for sustainable development, it also carries risks of corruption and fraudulent activities. Civil society organizations are working to address the challenges posed by organized crime, but their efforts are hindered by limited resources and capacity.

Lack of Effective Policies and Laws

The government has failed to implement effective policies and laws regulating foreign recruiters engaging in forced labor, and there is no long-term shelter for trafficking victims. As Mozambique struggles to rebuild its reputation and tackle the scourge of organized crime, it remains to be seen whether the country can overcome its entrenched corruption and create a more just and equitable society.