Mozambique: Seven killed in Cabo Delgado province attack January 6

Event

Suspected Islamist militants reportedly ambushed a van carrying civilians in the Mpundahar area of the Palma district (Cabo Delgado province) on Sunday, January 6. At least seven people were killed and seven others injured. Similar attacks are possible throughout Cabo Delgado province in the near term. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as of January 7, although the Ahlu Sunna Wa-Jamo/Ansar Al-Sunna (Shabaab) group is highly suspected.

Context

The Ahlu Sunna Wa-Jamo/Ansar Al-Sunna (Shabaab) group has been responsible for carrying out attacks against local businesses, government installations, and security forces in Cabo Delgado province since October 2017. According to local reports, at least 100 people were killed in such attacks.

Advice

Individuals in the affected area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

Some Western governments advise against nonessential travel to parts of Cabo Delgado province. Travelers in or intending to travel to Cabo Delgado should seek professional security support due to the volatile security environment and potential for further attacks.