France, July 20 -- So far this year, Malagasy police have recorded 172 reports of disappearances, including of 91 children, with numbers rising sharply since late June. Eight bodies have been recovered.

Most reports come from the capital Antananarivo, where the military government has mobilised more than 1,500 police officers, soldiers and gendarmes to patrol day and night.

Despite this, anxious residents are avoiding going out alone.

Madagascar is undergoing a difficult political transition, after the military took power in October 2025 and removed president Andry Rajoelina. The current government dissolved the cabinet in March and is facing pressure to restore civilian rule.

Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison recently claimed the...