Thousands have fled Mozambique in the past week to neighbouring Malawi seeking refuge from the southern African nation's deadly post-election protests, authorities told AFP.

At least 21 people have been killed in unrest after Mozambique's top court on Monday confirmed long-ruling party Frelimo's victory in the election, the country's interior minister said late on Tuesday.

More than 1,500 prisoners escaped from a Maputo prison Wednesday, taking advantage of the third day of unrest triggered by the controversial confirmation of the long-ruling Frelimo party as the winner of recent elections.

Over 2,000 Mozambican families have fled to Malawi due to violent unrest following a disputed election in October. The conflict, triggered by the ruling Frelimo party's contested victory, has resulted in 125 deaths since the Constitutional Council validated the election.

More than 2,000 Mozambican families have sought refuge in Malawi this week, Malawian authorities said, as dozens of people were reported killed in spreading unrest over a disputed election in October.

Post-election protests in Mozambique have led to more than 100 deaths and widespread unrest. Rights groups criticize government crackdowns against demonstrators. Opposition leader Venancio Mondlane claims the election was rigged and calls for continued protests.