On February 22nd, three individuals sustained serious injuries, several others suffered minor injuries, and military vehicles and various food supplies were seized following an unclaimed armed attack by an attack-cell of ISM. The group conducted an armed armed ambush against military escort from Macomia to Auasse locality early Sunday afternoon.
The attack occurred around Quinto Congresso village, the administrative post of Chai, within the Macomia district. It resulted in both serious and minor injuries, which were subsequently treated by members of the Defense and Security Forces and transported to the Macomia-central hospital. Following the incident, Defense and Security forces launched a counter-offensive, leading to over thirty minutes exchanging gunfire. There are no reports of terrorists killed or wounded.
This ambush resulted in the closure of the national highway N380 until this Monday, February 23rd, date of this report. Local residents described heightened security presence and continued disruption to travel routes.
Witnesses reported that the ISM cell, operating with apparent agility, skillfully positioned themselves for the ambush, taking advantage of the relatively remote terrain surrounding the Quinto Congresso area. The attack highlights the ongoing security challenges faced by DSF in Cabo Delgado, where the ISM group has been terrorizing local communities and eroding the trust among government authorities and local residents.
The incident underscores the vulnerability of military convoys operating in the region and the need for continued vigilance and enhanced security measures. Authorities are on the circumstances surrounding the attack and assessing the group’s capabilities and intentions.
The closure of the highway continued to impact local trade and supply chains, raising concerns about the humanitarian situation in surrounding communities.
Further updates are expected as the DSF progresses with operations.