- Civilian
A riot erupted in Guro district, central Mozambique, driven by superstition and a rumor accusing a local businessman of preventing rainfall. Believed to possess magical powers over the weather, the businessman faced threats, prompting him to seek refuge in the Guro District Police Command. A crowd followed, demanding his surrender, believing he had caused a lack of rain. To protect the businessman from harm, the police retained him in the command. The angered crowd attacked the command, throwing stones and resulting in the death of a child aged between 12 and 14. The police allowed the businessman to stay secure within the command. Despite the businessman's safety, the superstitious mob set fire to his home and vehicles, causing extensive destruction. Authorities are investigating the incident, assessing damages, and determining the true cause of the child's death. The situation was later brought under control with the intervention of the Mozambican riot police. Officials urged the public to resist attempts to disrupt public order, emphasizing that the lack of rain is a natural phenomenon and should not be attributed to an individual. The administrator of Guro district held those spreading the rumor responsible for the violence, death, and property destruction.