Militants linked to the Islamic State (IS) launched a daring assault on the town of Macomia in Mozambique’s gas-rich Cabo Delgado province, marking their most audacious target in over three years. The Mozambican government reported that its armed forces successfully repelled the attack after a 45-minute confrontation.
This latest outbreak of violence follows a series of attacks since December, indicating a troubling escalation in unrest. It comes at a critical juncture as the Mozambican government seeks to resume the development of a $20 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project by TotalEnergies SE, which was halted in 2021 following insurgent raids in nearby Palma that claimed over 800 lives.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the insurgents assaulted Macomia before dawn, launching attacks from two fronts. Portuguese news agency Lusa reported that over 100 fighters were involved in the assault. Mozambican government forces managed to apprehend one attacker, who later died in custody, and injured a leader who escaped, as per a statement released late Friday.
Strategically located about 100 miles south of TotalEnergies’ planned gas-export facility, Macomia holds significant importance. It sits along the main highway connecting the provincial capital of Pemba with the north, and it has been a key area of focus for regional efforts to combat insurgency. Hundreds of South African soldiers have been stationed in Macomia since 2021 as part of a regional deployment to assist Mozambique in fighting the insurgency.
However, the South African National Defence Force is scheduled to withdraw its troops from Mozambique by July 15, according to regional bloc agreements. Meanwhile, Rwanda has deployed over 2,000 soldiers and police to Mozambique under a separate bilateral deal. President Filipe Nyusi confirmed that these troops will remain in Mozambique to assist the government in its efforts against the insurgents.
The attack on Macomia underscores the persistent threat posed by IS-linked militants in Cabo Delgado province and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Mozambique in restoring peace and stability to the region.
