Mozambique: Militants attack village in Cabo Delgado province November 7 /update 1

Event

Islamist militants carried out an attack on the village of Nanjaba in Cabo Delgado province on Friday night, November 7, in one of the latest incidents of violence in the restive region. The attack on the village near Macomia town occurred at around 22:00 (local time). The militants opened fire on the village and set fire to dwellings. Unconfirmed sources indicate that two people were beheaded and six women kidnapped in the attack. Three people were also killed in a similar attack on the village of Napala on the same night. The attacks come after militants reportedly occupied several villages in Muidumbe district on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1. While officials deny the assailants still hold control over any areas, the militants claim to still occupy several villages, including Muatide, where there are reports that around 50 people have been beheaded as the football field has been turned into a killing field.

Security operations are likely in the area in response to the incidents. Further militant attacks are expected to continue to occur over the near term.

Context

Cabo Delgado province has seen a significant increase in Islamist militant activity in 2020. At least 900 civilians have been killed, and at least 150,000 more have fled Cabo Delgado since the Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jama insurgency began in 2017.

Advice

Those 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.