A Chinese-owned private security firm has been closed in Mozambique’s port city of Beira for alleged involvement in money laundering.

The BBC reports that the attorney general’s office (PGR) accuses the owner of Panda Security, Jiye Zhuo, of defrauding the state of about $13m (£11m) through tax evasion.

Another of his firms, the Thian Hai petrol station, was closed by the authorities two months ago, also on allegations of money laundering.

The PGR also suspects him of financing terrorism, forging documents, conspiracy and environmental crimes. Mr Jiye has not commented on the allegations.

In response to the latest closure, more than 3,000 of Panda Security’s workers demonstrated, demanding two months of back pay.

It is unlikely that they will receive their money, as their employer’s current whereabouts are unknown.

But a PGR spokesperson told journalists that he would be found. “The administration of justice is gathering evidence to hold him, his associates and all those who contributed to his various crimes, accountable.”