Mozambique: Militant attacks in Cabo Delgado province kill 11 between June 3-5

Event

Suspected Islamist militants have killed at least 11 people in attacks between Wednesday, June 3, and Friday, June 5, in villages in the Cabo Delgado province. According to reports, on Wednesday night (local time) a group of militants attacked the Imbada village in Meluco district, killing at least three people. On Thursday morning, an attack was reported in Litamanda village which resulted in at least five people killed. A further two people were killed in an attack on a beach near Ulo village in Mocimboa da Praia district on Friday.

A heightened security presence and security operations are to be expected in the near term in the area. Further militant attacks in Cabo Delgado province are highly likely in the medium term.

Context

Cabo Delgado province has seen an increase in Islamist militant activity in 2020. While the most prominent militant group operating in the province is Ansar al-Sunna, also known as Al-Shabaab (not related to the Somali Al-Shabaab), Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) have recently claimed responsibility for several significant attacks. At least 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 all 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.