Mozambique: More than 1000 people displaced due to rising violence in Cabo Delgado

Event

On Wednesday, June 20, Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a statement claiming that more than 1000 people have been displaced in recent months in Cabo Delgado province due to rising levels of violence. As a reminder, on June 12, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised its citizens to avoid nonessential travel to the districts of Palma, Mocimboa de Praia, and Macomia. On June 8, the US Embassy in Maputo warned its citizens of possible attacks targeting government and commercial centers located in Palma district, and advised its nationals to leave the area or postpone travel.

Context

Various attacks have taken place in the area since October 2017. Since the beginning of May, at least 39 people have been killed in Cabo Delgado province. An armed group going by the name of Swahili Al Sunnah and/or Al Sunnah wa Jama'ah is suspected of being behind these attacks.

Advice

Individuals present in Mozambique are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.