Mozambique: Militants reportedly seize control of Palma March 27 /update 2

Event

Incoming unverified reports indicate that armed militants have seized control of Palma in Cabo Delgado Province as of March 27 after government security personnel withdrew from the town, while fighting continues in some areas and villages around Palma.

In addition, further unverified reports indicate that militants may have also taken control of a Total gas construction site; however, information remains scarce.

Separately, a group of people, including foreign national gas workers, reportedly attempted to flee from the Amarula Palma Hotel overnight March 26-27. However, the convoy in which they were traveling came under attack shortly after leaving the hotel grounds, resulting in at least seven, possibly more fatalities. Reports indicate that those remaining at the hotel were evacuated by undetermined means. Shortly thereafter militants overran the hotel. The group of approximately 180 people had been sheltering at the hotel since March 24.

Local sources have reported multiple casualties; however, authorities have as yet released no official estimates concerning the numbers of dead and wounded. Further details remain unavailable at this time; communications to the town have been cut. The situation is fluid and subject to change with little to no warning.

The violence first erupted on March 24 when insurgents launched a three-prong attack on the town. Targets within Palma have included banks, the Amarula Palma Hotel, and a military installation, with some fighting having taken place in the town's central business district. Militants also blocked the road between Palma and the adjoining Afungi Peninsula, March 24.

Security operations will almost certainly continue over the coming days; additional violence is almost certain as security forces attempt to retake the town.

Context

The coastal Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, and Macomia districts are likely to remain the focus of insurgent activity through 2021. Palma is host to several large energy projects in the Afungi Peninsula and offshore fields in the Rovuma Basin. Recent attacks on larger coastal towns, including Mocimboa da Praia and Quissanga, point to increased militant intent and capability to attack larger and more complex targets, as well as confidence in their ability to gain and hold territory.

Despite this, no conventional military attacks have been carried out against facilities linked to natural gas exploitation in the area, mainly in the Afungi Peninsula. Onshore and offshore oil and gas facilities have government protection and private security force support.

Insurgent activity currently poses a severe threat to ground travel in Cabo Delgado Province, including along arterial highways through the area.

Advice

Consider deferring travel to Cabo Delgado Province until the situation stabilizes. Confirm route and destination security conditions before conducting any ground movements outside major urban centers in Cabo Delgado Province. Travel during daylight hours only and in convoy. Avoid travel along routes through the affected area. Heed instructions from security personnel. Carry proper identification at all times, and remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.