The attackers reportedly clashed briefly with local militia before retreating, leaving behind casualties and a shaken community. Among the dead was a local merchant, and at least two girls were taken by the militants. Residents say a young man was fatally shot after refusing to hand over belongings.

The Mozambican government has not commented on the incident, consistent with its general silence on such attacks.

A large base housing Rwandan troops, deployed in support of Mozambican forces, is located near Macomia, in the conflict-ridden Cabo Delgado province. The region has seen renewed violence in recent months, despite international military support.

More than 6,200 people have been killed since the insurgency began. The violence has stalled a $20-billion liquefied natural gas project operated by French energy giant TotalEnergies, which has remained inactive since a major militant attack on the nearby town of Palma.

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Following a recent surge in attacks, Doctors Without Borders suspended its operations in the port town of Mocimboa da Praia, once a key logistical hub for the LNG project.

Several subcontractors and victims’ families have taken legal action against TotalEnergies, while the company has announced plans to resume construction on the stalled project within months.

Source: Channels