A group of militants linked to the Islamic State have successfully seized a once heavily guarded port in Mozambique following an extended battle over the strategic point.
According to BBC, government forces at the station in Mocimboa da Praia had to flee the area via boat following the attack.
Thousands of locals have been displaced in recent months as militant groups have taken ownership of several towns in the northern part of the country.
This most recent attack forms part of a number that have taken place in 2020, following the establishment of a site of natural gas projects worth billions.
The port taken by the militants is used for deliveries to oil projects run by Total nearby.
Government forces have reportedly been unable to resist Islamic forces in the area due to lack of ammunition and personnel. Concerns are mounting in neighbouring areas and many feel the militant forces may continue to stay in the area.
According to reports in the Islamic State, their soldiers have managed to capture two bases in the northern area, kill a number of soldiers and obtain weaponry while doing so.
Xolani Mankayi, South Africa’s Brig-Gen could be coming to the rescue according to reports by BusinessLive. Mankayi has allegedly ordered that soldiers from the 43 SA Brigade begin training for taking possible action to assist in Cabo Delgado if the President orders it.
Picture:@ncambirwa/Twitter