Beira council evicts 200 families from land
Municipal authorities demolished homes in Muave, Sofala province, stating the land was illegally occupied and part of a protected airport zone.
At least 200 families in the Muave residential area of Beira, Sofala province, are homeless after municipal authorities demolished their homes on Wednesday. The families had allegedly built on land belonging to the Beira International Airport, a protected area.
Residents condemned the Beira Municipal Council's decision, citing a lack of prior warning and no alternative housing. Authorities stated the demolitions were necessary to enforce legislation, protect airport land, and ensure air navigation safety. The council also noted that the illegal occupation obstructed the city's land use plan.
The operation, involving municipal inspection services, the Municipal Police, and other state entities, aimed to restore legality. However, the demolition of the final construction was reportedly halted by the commander of the 13th PRM Station, impeding further work.
Why it matters200 families in Beira, Mozambique, have lost their homes due to municipal land evictions.