The Municipal Police on Sunday halted a live show on 10 de Novembro Avenue in Maputo city due to non-compliance with regulations governing events held on public roads. According to PM spokesperson Naftal Lay, the organisers were required to ensure the presence of the police force to regulate traffic, provide road signage and have an… Source
The Municipal Police on Sunday halted a live show on 10 de Novembro Avenue in Maputo city due to non-compliance with regulations governing events held on public roads.
According to PM spokesperson Naftal Lay, the organisers were required to ensure the presence of the police force to regulate traffic, provide road signage and have an ambulance available in case of emergencies. None of these conditions was met.
“We authorised the show to take place, but it was required to comply with certain rules which, in this case, were not observed. In view of this situation, the authorities ordered the event to be suspended, with the possibility of the corresponding fines being imposed,” he explained.
At the scene, hundreds of spectators had gathered on both sides of the avenue and even on the carriageway, while several vehicles were parked in inappropriate locations.
The situation was worsened by rubbish accumulating along the road and car racing, accompanied by loud noise.
After the Banda Tsaka performed three songs, the Municipal Police ordered the performance to be stopped. However, the measure did not prevent more spectators from arriving. On the contrary, the crowd grew as time passed, making traffic more difficult and increasing safety risks.
Although the intervention interrupted the entertainment, some participants applauded the authorities’ decision, saying that the conditions at the venue compromised safety and mobility.
Laura Bila, who attended the show with friends, said she had taken part in previous editions, when attendance was lower and traffic was properly controlled.
“It was good, but the situation had already become chaotic and something had to be done for the sake of safety. Many people were at risk of being hit by vehicles, and some even climbed onto and danced on the protective barrier separating the road from the sea, risking falling,” she said.
The event organiser, Timóteo Buregeya, said the initiative was intended to bring Mozambican families together through live music, promote national culture and showcase the country’s capital.
“The idea was to promote music, the city of Maputo and our culture. However, due to the huge turnout, the show had to be cancelled,” he explained.
Source: Notícias
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