- The attack took place in a neighbourhood largely inhabited by Makonde residents, suggesting an ethnic dimension to the conflict
By MOZTIMES
Maputo (MOZTIMES) – Insurgents carried out another attack in the early hours of Monday (22 September) in the 30 de Junho neighbourhood, also known as Filipe Nyusi, on the outskirts of the district capital of Mocímboa da Praia. At least four people were killed and beheaded.
According to local sources, the attackers went door to door killing the victims, then withdrew without facing resistance from the Defence and Security Forces, firing a few shots as they pulled out.
“All the victims are male, and all belong to the Makonde ethnic group,” a local source said. “Another detail is that the deceased were from neighbouring households.”
The 30 de Junho neighbourhood is largely inhabited by members of the Makonde ethnic group, originally from the interior of Cabo Delgado, who have historically had tense relations with Mocímboa da Praia’s native Mwani community.
On 7 September, a date of historic significance for the Makonde as it marks Victory Day in the National Liberation Struggle, insurgents attacked the same neighbourhood, killing at least six people. The Makonde were among the principal groups involved in the liberation struggle. (MT)
