The murder of SERNIC agent reignites concerns over a wave of killings targeting security forces
The year 2026 started violently in Maputo province with the murder of a National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) agent, amid a series of concerning murders of security personnel in Mozambique.
The victim, identified as João Paulo, was fatally shot on the afternoon of Saturday, 3 January, at his residence in the Fomento neighbourhood of Matola City, while in the company of family and friends. Reports indicate that two hooded, armed individuals arrived in a Toyota Mark X, parked in front of the house, and fired several shots, resulting in the officer’s immediate death.
The Commander-General of the Police of the Republic of Mozambique (PRM), Joaquim Sive, confirmed the occurrence, classifying the crime as macabre, and assured that investigations are underway to clarify the facts and hold the perpetrators accountable.
