Mozambique: Western governments issue travel warnings for Cabo Delgado province /update 1

Event

Multiple attacks by Islamist militants within the past month in Cabo Delgado province have prompted some Western governments to issue security warnings for the region in recent days. On Tuesday, June 12, the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advised its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to the districts of Palma, Mocimboa de Praia, and Macomia. The US Embassy in Maputo also warned its citizens on June 8 of possible imminent attacks targeting government and commercial centers located in Palma district, advising its nationals to leave the area or postpone travel.

Context

Since the beginning of May, at least 17 people have been killed in Cabo Delgado province in attacks attributed to an Islamic militant group referred to locally as "Al-Shabaab." The group has no confirmed ties to the Islamist terrorist group of the same name active in Somalia and Kenya.

Advice

Individuals present in Mozambique are advised to monitor local media, remain vigilant at all times (especially during public events, as well as in crowded places), report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities, and adhere to all instructions issued by their home governments.