Mozambique: Militants attack village in Cabo Delgado province April 28

Event

Armed militants attacked and set fire to the village of Nacoba (Cabo Delgado province) on Tuesday, April 28, burning down 20 huts and killing 15 livestock before being repelled by security forces. The village, located in Metuge district, is approximately 33 km (20.5 mi) from the provincial capital Pemba and houses a tourist camp used by the Quirimbas National Park. No casualties have been reported as of Friday, May 1, and no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

According to the Ministry of Interior, at least 129 militants were killed during security operations held in Cabo Delgado over the past month.

A heightened security presence is expected in the vicinity of the incident and similar attacks are likely in Cabo Delgado over the near term.

Context

Ahlu Sunna Wa-Jamo/Ansar Al-Sunna 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 the 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 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.