On our way to Xai-Xai we were laser-gunned by the local police. They measured the speed of all cars entering a small village, right at the sign showing the speed limit of 60 km/hr. Naturally, everybody was speeding at that spot, so were we, and we were pulled over. I was quickly offered a choice between paying 1,000 Metica (25 Euro) with a fine, or only 500 Mtc without a fine (and a friendly smile from the officer and his colleagues, as their buying power would increase in that case). Peter chose the latter options, afraid that the paperwork would take at least a couple of hours and afraid that the official fine had to be paid in another town.

During our stay at Covane Community lodge, Peter went to do some shoppings in Massingir. Just outside Massingir there was something that looks like a roundabout; it has some sort of pillar in the centre and a vague circle of rocks indicate where you should drive. Not really conscious, Peter took a right turn via ¼ of the roundabout. 100 mtr further, Peter parked the car and was directed by and unfriendly police-officer to get into the car again, turn around and park in front of the police station. He would not tell why, but when the police officer was joined by two soldiers with machine guns, Peter obeyed. In the police office, it was made clear what Peter did wrong, and the question was asked what he was willing to pay for his offence..... Peter did not answer, but instead explained that in Holland they drive on the other side of the road. After some discussion in Portugese and English, Peter was ‘free to go', but only because he had admitted to his offence. Later we found out that a researcher from Maputo, who was also guest at Covane lodge and whom we had met there, had witnessed the whole thing and had started asking questions what was the problem. Apparently the police did not very much like it that things were being noticed and that somebody started asking questions, so they decided to let Peter go. Sometimes, it pays to be lucky!

Apparently, corruption is still widely spread throughout the country, and used by police officers to boost their personal income. It's about time they start to understand that making the tourists feel welcome will, in the long run, bring more benefit to the country.....