Insurgents kill 22 in Cabo Delgado farmland
Islamic State claimed 14 Christian victims in Muidumbe and Mueda districts over two weeks.
At least 22 people have died in the past two weeks in the farmland of Cabo Delgado's Muidumbe and Mueda districts. Islamic State claimed responsibility for 14 of these deaths, stating their victims were Christians. This follows a pattern where insurgents have exploited perceived passivity from defence forces since June, moving into new areas.
Insurgent groups have operated in districts like Montepuez and Niassa province, even attacking a hunting camp in September. Proximity to military positions offered no protection, as insurgents struck near Chai and Litamanda in Macomia, blocking the N380 road. The Local Force militia, integrated into the armed forces by a 2023 decree, faces ammunition shortages and delayed allowances, hindering their ability to counter enemies using drones.
Four women released by insurgents near Muatide reported that their captors used binoculars and a drone to evade Local Force patrols. The militia, equipped with rifles, is struggling to combat this advanced enemy.
Why it mattersCivilians in Cabo Delgado's Muidumbe and Mueda districts are directly affected by killings and the inability of local militias to provide security.