Cabo Delgado, Mozambique – At least 30 Mozambican soldiers are reported to have been killed in an ambush by Islamist insurgents in Quiterajo, Macomia district, Cabo Delgado. The assault, which reportedly took place on 28 June, was publicised through Islamic State-affiliated propaganda channels.
According to the claims, the attackers captured one of the soldiers during the assault and subjected him to questioning. The soldier is said to have revealed that he had recently completed military training in Nacala, a city in Nampula province, under the supervision of both Mozambican and Rwandan instructors. The insurgents also allege that they seized military equipment and other assets from the Mozambican Armed Forces (FADM) during the raid.
Although the group behind the attack released an image showing 13 bodies in what appear to be FADM uniforms, the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) has stated that there is no verified evidence supporting the claim that 30 soldiers were killed. ACLED also reported a noticeable rise in attacks in Macomia, Meluco, and Muidumbe districts in recent weeks.
The Mozambican government has yet to respond to the claims. However, Macomia District Administrator Tomás Badae said in a recent interview that the country’s Defence and Security Forces were engaged in operations to dismantle insurgent camps in Quiterajo.
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