We have analysed the evolution of Ansar al-Sunna’s Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado and its implications, from the group’s roots as a non-violent religious movement to its pursuit of territory through kidnappings, lootings and mass killings. The extent to which this will impact Ansar al-Sunna’s operations and long-term ambitions remains to be understood. On, government forces engaged Ansar al-Sunna militants in one of the largest counter-terrorism operations to date, resulting in the reported deaths of 78 insurgents, including two of the group’s leaders. A battle for the town of Macomia at the end of May demonstrates the group’s organisational capacity and ambition as well as an escalation in the government’s counter-offensive efforts. From its first few attacks in Mocimboa de Praia in late 2017, the group now launches more than 20 attacks every month in an insurgency that covers nine major towns and districts along the Cabo Delgado coast. It is a sign that the group is growing in resilience, operational capacity and confidence. Militants have begun to target military positions having previously focused on civilian targets. ![]() In recent months the situation in Cabo Delgado has deteriorated significantly and violent attacks are now frequent. For almost three years, the ISIS-affiliated extremist group Ansar al-Sunna has spearheaded an insurgency in Mozambique’s northern province of Cabo Delgado.
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