09 Aug 2021 | 05:58 AM UTC
Mozambique: Government forces retake the port city of Mocimboa da Praia, Aug. 8
Government forces retake the port city of Mocimboa da Praia, Mozambique, from militant group Aug. 8; heightened security measures likely.
Event
The Mozambican Ministry of Defense announced Aug. 8 that the country's security forces, along with the Rwandan military, had retaken control of the strategically important port city of Mocimboa da Praia in Cabo Delgado Province. Militants linked to the Islamic State (IS) had been in control of the city - which is home to one of Africa's largest natural gas fields - for several months. The Ministry of Defense officials further noted that while the government forces were in control of government buildings and the airport, operations were still ongoing in the outskirts of the city.
Security forces will almost certainly maintain a heightened security posture over the coming days to mitigate militants' ability to carry out a successful attack on the city. Security forces will likely establish security checkpoints, which could prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Further clashes cannot be ruled out in the coming days as clearance operations will be ongoing for several days and possibly weeks.
Context
The seizure of Mocimboa da Praia is quite consequential and will have serious security implications for areas throughout northeastern Mozambique. Militants had turned the port city into their stronghold and were using it as a launching pad for operations throughout Mozambique and neighboring countries. In July, the Rwandan government deployed 1,000 soldiers to Mozambique to free the city from militant control. Fighting between the government forces and militants has killed over 3,000 people and displaced some 820,000 others in recent years.
Advice
Defer travel to Mocimboa da Praia until government forces consolidate their control of the city. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Liaise with trusted security partners for further information. Review and update contingency plans. Carry personal identification documents while traveling throughout Cabo Delgado Province. Heed all security personnel instructions.
