At
least 104 (not official number) trucks traveling along the Macomia–Oasse
stretch in the Mocimboa da Praia district have reportedly been forced to
support the logistics of insurgent groups operating in Cabo Delgado, northern
Mozambique.
Business
owners and drivers report that armed terrorists regularly intercept vehicles in route to Oasse village, demanding large sums of money in exchange for the
release of the trucks, drivers, and passengers.
According
to testimonies, the insurgents charge between 100,000 and 350,000 meticais
(approximately USD 1,500 to 5,500) per truck or per person in some cases. When
payments are not made, the attackers reportedly set the vehicles on fire, resulting
in significant financial losses for transport and logistics operators.
In
addition to freight trucks, minibuses transporting passengers between Pemba and
Mocímboa da Praia have also been targeted. In certain instances, passengers
have been forced to pay up to 10,000 meticais (about USD 150) each to be
released.
These actions appear to be part of a broader strategy by the insurgents to maintain their supply chain and strengthen their presence in the region, using civilian means to support their operations.
Faced
with the ongoing threat, business owners in the sector are calling for urgent
government intervention, including enhanced security measures and the
reinstatement of military escorts along the Macomia–Mocímboa da Praia route a
vital corridor for the supply of goods and the movement of local populations.
(Sifa Artur)
0 Comments