Maputo, 12 Jul (AIM) – Since last week, the Mozambican and South African armed forces, with the assistance of the local militias, have been attempting to dismantle terrorist bases set up in the triangle formed by the districts of Muidumbe, Mocimboa da Praia and Macomia, according to a report in Wednesday’s issue of the independent newssheet “Carta de Mocambique”.
Some reports from Macomia indicate that jihadist groups are continuing to circulate in villages in the Mucojo and Quiterajo administrative posts, despite the actions of the Mozambican forces and their allies.
Local sources told the paper that on Sunday two terrorist groups passed through Ilala village, in Quiterajo, but did not attack or threaten the local people. Instead, they told the people they met that their fight is only against the defence and security forces.
These events follow the claim made by Rwandan President Paul Kagame that the terrorism threat in Cabo Delgado is nearly 80 per cent sorted out, and a large majority of the internally displaced people who fled the affected areas should now return to their places of origin.
Addressing a press conference last week in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, Kagame said that the fight against terrorism has yielded encouraging outcomes, since the arrival of the Rwandan forces back in 2021.
“As far as Mozambique’s security and stability is concerned, within the areas where we have been working shoulder to shoulder with Mozambicans to bring back safety, especially in Cabo Delgado province, I can resolutely assure you that a greater part of the problem has been solved. There is meaningful progress and the threat is about 80 per cent overcome,” he declared.
However, the Rwandan leader admitted that there are some minor challenges to be overcome, but full collaboration among the several forces on the ground with the local army will fast track the desired results.
(AIM)
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