# Forbidden Stories Investigates Blogger Death in Mozambique An investigation links the killing of a blogger to chrome mining industry corruption. - **Source:** [RFI – Afrique](https://www.rfi.fr/fr/afrique) - **Published:** 2026-11-07 - **Topic:** [world](https://brifing.si/c/world) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/39dc616f-f1ed-4aa9-a7a0-4ed2a8a2a720 ## Blogger Killed During Protest In late 2024, Mozambican blogger Albino Sibia, known as Mano Shottas, was killed while livestreaming a protest. The demonstration targeted pollution caused by chrome ore transport near the South African border. His final Facebook broadcast captured the moments leading to his death, including the sound of gunfire and police presence. ## Digital Forensics Investigation Forbidden Stories conducted an independent investigation into the incident. Investigator Alexander Abdelilah mapped the blogger’s position relative to police forces during the shooting. By analyzing audio and ballistic data, the team determined that the gunfire originated from the specific area where law enforcement officers were stationed during the protest event. ## Lack of Official Accountability Despite a formal legal complaint filed against the state regarding the blogger's death, no official investigation has been initiated by Mozambican authorities. The government has remained silent, offering no response to inquiries from investigators. This lack of judicial action highlights the significant barriers to justice for journalists working in Mozambique. ## Chrome Industry Environmental Impact The protests centered on the environmental degradation caused by thousands of trucks transporting chrome ore daily. Investigations revealed that transport companies frequently clean their truck beds on roadsides or at washing stations, dumping toxic mineral residues directly into the soil. This practice poses severe health risks to local human and plant populations. ## Climate of Fear and Omerta Reporting on the chrome industry is hampered by a pervasive culture of silence and intimidation. Sources interviewed for the investigation provided only anonymous testimony, citing severe threats against their families and children. This atmosphere of fear prevents local documentation of the environmental damage and the potential health consequences for residents. ## Economic Stakes of Mining The chrome trade is a multi-billion euro industry, with the Port of Maputo serving as a critical exit point for global supply chains. Approximately three-quarters of the world's chrome production passes through this region. The massive economic scale of this trade likely contributes to the high-stakes environment surrounding the mining operations. ## Cross-Border Regulatory Challenges South African environmental authorities acknowledge the difficulty of monitoring illegal dumping, which often occurs under the cover of darkness. While they claim to be investigating the issue, the sheer volume of over 1,000 trucks crossing the border daily complicates enforcement efforts. The illegal disposal remains largely unchecked by current regulatory measures. ## Broader Press Freedom Crisis The case of Mano Shottas reflects a wider trend of violence against journalists and bloggers globally. Organizations like Forbidden Stories continue the work of those silenced by force. This investigation serves as a critical reminder of the dangers faced by those documenting environmental crimes and state-linked corruption in high-profit industries. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.rfi.fr/fr/podcasts/menaces-sur-l-information/20261107-mozambique-forbidden-stories-enqu%C3%AAte-sur-la-mort-d-un-blogueur — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._