Mozambican authorities have detained four people, including the director-general of the National Social Security Institute (INSS), as part of an investigation into alleged corruption involving public tenders and the diversion of funds.
According to a source linked to the case, those arrested include the INSS chief, the institution’s director of Administration and Finance, a technician from the procurement management unit, and a businessman. All are suspected of manipulating procurement processes for personal gain.
The suspects are expected to appear for their first interrogation at the Criminal Investigation Section of the Maputo City Court. No further details about the case have been officially disclosed so far.
The arrests come amid broader concerns about corruption in Mozambique. Authorities reported that corrupt practices cost the state at least 2.9 billion meticais (around €38.5 million) in 2025 alone. Of that amount, just over 11.8 million meticais (€157,000) were recovered.
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Data from the Central Office for Combating Corruption also show that 2,169 cases were processed nationwide in 2025—an increase compared to the previous year. The most common offenses included passive corruption for illicit acts, active corruption, embezzlement, abuse of office, and misrepresentation of authority.
The latest detentions highlight ongoing efforts by Mozambican authorities to crack down on corruption within public institutions, particularly in areas involving state funds and procurement systems.
