Mozambique: Militants launch three attacks on farms April 21-22

Event

Suspected Islamist militants launched three attacks on farms in two villages near Mocímboa da Praia and Palma on Saturday, April 21, and Sunday, April 22, killing one person and wounding three others. The assailants reportedly attacked the farms to steal food. Additional militant attacks are possible in the affected area in the coming weeks.

Context

Several attacks have taken place in the area since October 2017. There is no clearly identifiable group responsible for the string of attacks, but the violence does appear to be driven by resentment among the local Muslim population toward the state. A group of dozens of young men, locally referred to as "Al-Shabaab," or "the youths," is suspected of being behind these attacks. The group has no confirmed ties to the infamous jihadist organization of the same name active in Somalia and, to a lesser extent, in Kenya.

Advice

Individuals present in Mozambique are advised to remain vigilant at all times (especially during public events, as well as in crowded places) and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.