Eswatini’s Secret Police Squad: A Reign of Fear Against Pro-Democracy Activists
In the shadows of Eswatini’s intelligence operations, a feared special force exists, operating beyond the reach of official records. Their mission: to instill fear in those advocating for democratic reforms. Led by Thabo Hlophe, who succeeded the notorious Sihlongonyane, this covert unit has been linked to countless cases of abductions and brutal assaults against activists.
Numerous accounts from victims and witnesses describe how this unit, traveling in a Toyota Quantum, conducts night raids on suspected pro-democracy figures. They work outside the legal system, ensuring that no formal complaints can be lodged against them. Their victims are left battered, broken, and silenced by fear.
One activist, known as Drogba, recalls how the squad stormed into his home in the dead of night without a search warrant. "They came for me like criminals, beating me senseless. Their only justification? That I supported democracy," he recounted. Another victim, whose trauma remains fresh, described how he was tortured simply for being a supporter of SWALIMO leader, Mduduzi "Gawzela" Simelane. "Ngashaywa kwatsiwa angitsi ngiyamunyanya Gawzela," he revealed.
The brutality of this secret force has led many activists to either abandon their cause or flee to neighboring South Africa in search of safety. Fear now dictates their every move, with some living in constant paranoia of being the next target.
One of the most horrifying accounts comes from a comrade who was abducted during last year’s Workers’ Day demonstrations. He described in disturbing detail how he was humiliated and tortured by female officers within the squad. "Losisi wahlala nge sibumbu ebusweni bami watsi ngiyalati yono logolo," he recalled, his voice heavy with trauma.
As the oppression continues unchecked, activists and human rights organizations demand accountability. However, with this special squad working off the books, justice remains elusive. The people of Eswatini are left wondering: how many more voices must be silenced before the world takes notice?
