Mozambique: Militants attack village in Macomia district (Cabo Delgado province) May 24

Event

On Sunday, May 24, militants attacked the village of Koko in Macomia district (Cabo Delgado province). No fatalities were reported, however, houses were set on fire and food and other items looted. The following day, Monday, May 25, three suspected militants were reportedly captured by residents of the villages of Machova and Bangala II and handed over to a unit of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) in Macomia. The vigilante capture of the suspected militants followed a curfew that was imposed on Sunday from 18:00 (local time) in Macomia town due to fears that militants would attack the town during Eid al-Fitr celebrations.

Further militant attacks are possible in Macomia district and across Cabo Delgado province over the near term.

Context

Cabo Delgado province has seen an increase in Islamist militant activity against government forces in 2020. While the most prominent militant group operating in Cabo Delgado province is Ansar al-Sunna, also known as Al-Shabaab (not related to the Somali Al-Shabaab), Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) fighters have recently carried out significant attacks. An estimated 900 civilians have been killed, and at least 150,000 more have fled Cabo Delgado since the insurgency began in 2017.

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.