Mozambique: Suspected militants launch attack in Cabo Delgado August 21 /update 1

Event

Suspected militants launched an attack on the local government administrative building in Pundanhar (Palma district, Cabo Delgado province) on the evening of Tuesday, August 21 (local time), wounding one person and displacing hundreds of others. The building was reportedly destroyed and several houses torched in the attack, which the Ansar Al-Sunna group is suspected of carrying out. Similar militant attacks are possible in Cabo Delgado province in the near-term.

Context

Various militant attacks have taken place in Cabo Delgado province since October 2017, killing dozens. The armed Ansar Al-Sunnah group, also known as Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jamo, is suspected of carrying out the attacks.

Advice

Individuals present in Mozambique, particularly in Cabo Delgado province, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and report any suspicious objects and behavior to the authorities.