Police in Mozambique suppressed violent protests on Friday as opposition supporters took to the streets to denounce the results of local elections earlier this month, which they say were rigged.
According to a police spokesperson, at least nine civilians and one police officer were injured in protests in the city of Nampula on Friday.
“Police arrested 70 people, including 60 in Nampula and others in capital Maputo, Nacala and Quelimane,” he said.
“The police, under the law, will use all available and proportionate means to suppress violence,” he added.
Demonstrations started shortly after the Oct. 11 municipal elections as results trickled in. The ruling party, FRELIMO, was declared the winner in 64 out of 65 municipalities and has denied fraud.
The main opposition party, RENAMO, said it would go to the Constitutional Court to challenge the results.