TotalEnergies faces manslaughter investigation over Mozambique attack
- Islamic State-linked militants attacked Palma, Mozambique, in March 2021, resulting in extensive casualties.
- Survivors and victims’ relatives launched legal actions against TotalEnergies in October 2023, accusing the company of failing its responsibility.
- French prosecutors have initiated a manslaughter investigation into TotalEnergies for its role during the attack.
In March 2021, Islamic State-linked militants attacked the port town of Palma in Mozambique, leading to a tragic loss of life. The attack, which lasted several days, forced thousands to flee into the forest and resulted in shocking brutality, including beheadings. Following the assault, survivors and families of victims initiated legal action against TotalEnergies, accusing the oil giant of failing to protect its contractors and assist those in danger during the crisis. The filing of these accusations occurred in October 2023, culminating in a criminal investigation by French prosecutors into involuntary manslaughter and failure to assist. TotalEnergies was involved in developing a liquefied natural gas project near Palma, which was put on hold after the attack. The company is now looking to restart the $20 billion project but is facing significant scrutiny due to the allegations surrounding the attack. Legal complaints assert that TotalEnergies did not provide necessary support, such as fuel for a rescue mission organized by a South African security firm during the assault, which left people stranded and vulnerable. Eyewitness accounts reveal harrowing experiences, including testimony from Janik Armstrong, who described a desperate situation where individuals waited for rescue that never came. During the siege, these individuals, trapped in a lodging facility, attempted to escape in a convoy but faced gunfire from militants, resulting in fatalities among those attempting to flee. The attack prompted significant military interventions, including the deployment of Rwandan forces, which helped restore control in Cabo Delgado province. The investigation by Nanterre prosecutors marks a critical moment as it examines the obligations of corporations like TotalEnergies to guarantee the safety of individuals in high-risk environments. In light of the poor response and the ongoing legal actions, various NGOs have publicly condemned any attempts to restart the company’s LNG project, labeling it irresponsible amidst accusations of human rights violations in relation to the attack.