Organized Crime in Mozambique: Key Concerns

The State of Organized Crime in Mozambique

A recent report has shed light on several critical aspects of organized crime in Mozambique, highlighting a complex web of issues that threaten the country’s stability and security.

Criminal Actors in Mozambique

• Evidence suggests that some state-embedded actors own legal ruby companies involved in tax evasion and taking advantage of local populations.
• Foreign criminal actors, such as Chinese, Tanzanian, Somali, Thai, and Vietnamese groups, are also operating in the country’s illicit economies.

Weak Governance and Corruption

The Mozambican government is seen as corrupt and has not taken a solid stance against organized crime. This lack of leadership has resulted in:

• Limited transparency
• Obstruction of trans-border law enforcement efforts

Inadequate Justice and Security

The judiciary has a poor reputation, with:

• Under-resourced courts
• Several judges accused of corruption

Law enforcement agencies are also poorly resourced and unable to effectively investigate organized crime.

Economic Instability and Financial Risks

Mozambique is at risk of money laundering and terrorist financing due to its economic instability and decline in capital influx. However, the Bank of Mozambique has enacted legislation prohibiting corruption and money laundering.

Lack of Social Protection and Community-Based Initiatives

• Victim- and witness-support programmes are poorly developed
• There is a lack of community-based crime prevention activities

Overall, the report indicates that organized crime in Mozambique is a significant concern due to the involvement of state-embedded actors, foreign criminal groups, and corruption within the government and judiciary. The country’s economic instability and limited transparency further exacerbate the issue.