Mozambique: Increased security likely in northern parts of Nampula Province as of Sept. 8 following recent attacks

Event

Increased security is likely in northern parts of Nampula Province as of Sept. 8 following recent militant attacks. On Sept. 6, militants attacked villages in the districts of Erati and Memba, killing six people and kidnapping three others. Several houses were also torched. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for an attack in Chipene, Memba District, where four people were killed including an Italian nun. The attack follows an assault overnight Sept. 2-3, when around 20 militants assaulted the village of Kutua, Erati District, burning homes and attacking residents.

Further attacks are possible in the region over the medium term, particularly in the north and northeast of the province. These could include attacks against civilian targets, clashes with security personnel, or assaults targeting towns in the area. Authorities will almost certainly maintain an increased security posture in the affected areas and may erect roadblocks or restrict access on some roads. Security-related operations could result in localized ground transport disruptions. Increased vehicle checks are also likely on roads leading to and from larger urban centers.

Context

Mozambique's north, particularly Cabo Delgado Province and, to a lesser degree, the Niassa and Nampula provinces, has been subject to an Islamist insurgency since October 2017. As of September 2022, the insurgency in Cabo Delgado has killed over 3,000 people and displaced over 800,000. Attacks are linked to militants under the name Ahlu Sunnah Wa-Jamo (ASWJ), also known as Ansar al-Sunna, which has, in turn, pledged allegiance to the Islamic State (IS). Local community leaders have blamed the attacks on a group of radicalized youths calling themselves Al-Shabaab, without any proven connection with the Somalia-based group.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to Erati and Memba Districts until government forces stabilize the security landscape. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Liaise with trusted security partners for further information. Travel in convoy after a full security review of the route and avoid all travel after dark. Review and update contingency plans. Carry personal identification documents while traveling throughout Cabo Delgado. Heed all security personnel instructions.