Mozambique: Militant attacks reported in Cabo Delgado March 22-24

Event

Unidentified militants reportedly staged four attacks in Ancuabe, Macomia, and Meluco districts (Cabo Delgado province) between Friday, March 22, and Sunday, March 24, killing at least five people. Local reports indicate militants attacked the village of Bengala II (Macomia district) on Friday afternoon (local time) and again on Saturday, March 23. Gunmen also attacked the village of Mpataula (Macomia district) and Ancuabe (Ancuabe district) on Saturday, as well as the town of Iba (Meluco district) on Sunday. 

Similar attacks are possible in Cabo Delgado province over the near term.

Context

Additional government forces have been deployed into Cabo Delgado province since late February when an oil company convoy was ambushed near the village of Mute. The local Ahlu Sunna wa-Jamo/Ansar al-Sunna (Al-Shabaab) group is suspected of having carried out the assault. The group is also believed to be responsible for carrying out attacks against local businesses, government installations, and security forces in Cabo Delgado province since October 2017.

Advice

Individuals in Cabo Delgado province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

Some Western governments advise against nonessential travel to parts of Cabo Delgado province. Travelers in or intending to travel to Cabo Delgado should seek professional security support due to the volatile security environment and potential for further attacks.