In February 2026, authorities arrested five former senior managers of LAM Mozambique, the country's state-owned airline, amid ongoing investigations into alleged financial misconduct. The Central Office for Combating Corruption (GCCC) conducted the operation, with reports indicating serious charges including corruption, embezzlement, and abuse of office.
The detained individuals include João Carlos Pó Jorge, a former general director who served until early 2024; Hilário Tembe, ex-operations chief; Armindo Savanguane, the former financial director; Eugénio Mulungo, former head of treasury; and Anísio Machava, a procurement technician. These arrests followed revelations of irregularities involving ticket sales, leasing arrangements, and fleet management, highlighting the complex challenges faced by the airline as it undergoes restructuring.
Background and ongoing investigations
Previous investigations revealed allegations of embezzlement of funds related to ticketing and improper leasing of aircraft. FMA, a South African brokerage appointed to oversee the airline's restructuring, was also scrutinized after reports of financial irregularities. The GCCC's inquiries encompass these issues, aiming to address claims of mismanagement and financial misconduct.
"There is evidence of practices that may constitute crimes of mismanagement, corruption, embezzlement, and abuse of office or functions," said Romualdo Johnam, GCCC spokesman, emphasizing the seriousness of the investigations.
Despite the arrests and ongoing inquiries, LAM Mozambique stated that it continued operations normally and remained committed to service safety and stability during the restructuring process. The airline reaffirmed its cooperation with authorities, indicating that the legal proceedings are part of broader efforts to improve transparency and governance.
The outcome of these investigations is expected to impact the airline's future restructuring and management strategies, underscoring the importance of governance reforms to restore credibility and financial stability.
