French energy group TotalEnergies confirmed on 27 March its support for the criminal investigation opened in Mozambique regarding allegations of abductions, sexual violence and murders allegedly committed by Mozambican soldiers stationed near its gas exploration site. The project, Mozambique LNG, suspended since 2021 following an armed attack near the site, represents a USD20bn investment primarily intended for Asian markets.
Official investigation launched by judicial authorities
The Attorney General of Mozambique stated that proceedings had been initiated after receiving reports in international media citing serious abuses by members of the Mozambican Defence and Security Forces (FDS). These forces were tasked with securing the area surrounding TotalEnergies’ infrastructure. The company recalled having itself requested an official investigation from local authorities in November 2024.
The group holds a 26.5% stake in Mozambique LNG, alongside partners such as Japanese company Mitsui, which holds 20%. In addition to its request to the public prosecutor, TotalEnergies also approached the Mozambique National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), which confirmed on 25 March that it would conduct its own assessment.
Transparency and cooperation announced by TotalEnergies
In a statement, TotalEnergies declared that its Mozambique LNG subsidiary would fully cooperate with the authorities. Aurélien Hamelle, Head of the Strategy & Sustainability Division, indicated that the company committed to publishing the results of the CNDH report. Chief Executive Officer Patrick Pouyanné emphasised the importance of respecting the independence of local institutions, stating: “let justice do its job and accept the results”.
The suspicions of violations were initially reported in September 2024 by Politico, followed in November by an article in Le Monde, which claimed that TotalEnergies had been alerted as early as 2021 via internal reports. The local subsidiary stated it had found no information or evidence to corroborate the allegations mentioned in the publications.
Restart subject to strict security and financial conditions
A restart of the project is not expected before 2029 or 2030, pending a sustained improvement in security conditions in the Cabo Delgado region. In addition to the lifting of the force majeure declaration, the project depends on the release of multilateral financial agreements. TotalEnergies has already received approval from the US administration for a USD4.7bn loan.
