CHRN Monthly Action September 20 - Angola

An investigation by Amnesty International and Angolan human rights organisation OMUNGA has reported that Angolan security forces responsible for implementing COVID-19 restrictions have killed at least 7 boys and young men, using excessive and unlawful force.

On 13 May 2020 14 year old Mário Palma Romeu (Marito) was going to buy sugar for his mother in the square at Tombas’ beach in Benguela province. That morning there was a riot involving young men working on fishing boats on the beach. A police officer shot twice into the air to disperse the disturbance and the second shot hit Marito’s head, killing him.   

On 5 June 2020, 15 year old Altino Holandês Alfonso went to see his grandmother and aunt at the canteen they owned. Shortly after he arrived police began shooting in the streets, possibly to disperse people. Witnesses report that an officer chased Altino, who tried to run to his aunt’s home, and was shot in the back just outside the door. Witnesses also alleged that the office who shot him was drunk.

On 4 July 2020, 16 year old Clinto Dongala Carlos was walking home from dinner at his aunt’s house (a 300 metre walk). According to witnesses he was chased by security agents and shot in the back. The officers then approached Clinton, asked neighbours for water, and poured it in his face. Neighbours report that they heard a second shot, and after officers left they saw Clinton had been shot in the face.

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