Mozambique: Unidentified gunmen kill two in Matapata (Cabo Delgado province) December 3 /update 1

Event

Unidentified gunmen killed two people in Matapata (Cabo Delgado province) on Tuesday, December 3, along the main route linking Mocímboa da Praia and Palma and near major natural gas projects. The gunmen reportedly fired at two vehicles, killing one person and wounding another; a second person was shot and killed while walking on the same road.

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

Context

Ahlu Sunna Wa-Jamo/Ansar Al-Sunna (Al-Shabaab) is believed to be responsible for carrying out attacks against local businesses, government installations, and security forces in Cabo Delgado province since October 2017. The Islamic State group has also claimed to be active in the province and alleged that its militants carried out the group's first attack in Mocímboa da Praia district in June 2019.

Advice

Individuals in Cabo Delgado province are advised to monitor developments, 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.