Tanzania: Military orders civilians in forest areas on border with Mozambique to leave ahead of major security operation August 12

Event

Tanzanian military officials ordered civilians living in forest areas on the border with Mozambique to evacuate on Wednesday, August 12, ahead of major security operations aimed at dislodging Islamist militants from the border region. The security operations are expected to begin in the Ruvuma region, before moving on to the eastern Mtwara and Lindi areas.

Security operations are likely in the areas along the border with Tanzania in the medium term, with associated localized disruptions.

Context

Tanzania has increased security along its border with Mozambique since the emergence of the Islamist insurgency in the neighboring Cabo Delgado province in 2017. Although militants in the region have staged few attacks in Tanzania, with incidents being limited to attacks on remote border communities, the government has previously announced several major security operations in areas bordering Cabo Delgado in order to secure the border and shut down alleged smuggling routes, most recently deploying forces in May.

Advice

Those in areas near the border with Mozambique are advised to monitor developments, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.