A series of attacks in the Mozambique districts of Macioma, Mecufi, and Chiure have displaced over 13,000 people from their homes.
This was disclosed in an alert by the United Nations migration agency, IOM, on Thursday, stating that most of those displaced were children, who fled by bus, boats, and on foot.
The president of Mozambique, Filipe Nyusi, confirmed the movement of people but said security forces were in control of the area.
“There are a significant number of people who move from one area to another and complain about support,” Nyusi stated following a meeting with military commanders.
“Terrorists try to recruit in this province, which is why we see these movements,” he said.
The president added revenge attacks from jihadists were responsible for the recent migration, especially from the town of Ocua.
He said Rwandan and Mozambican forces had foiled an attempt to kidnap children, hence the attackers had continued a wave of attacks.
“The last month recorded significant movements by non-state armed groups towards the southern districts of Cabo Delgado” a United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) spokesperson said.
“This wave of attacks has essentially been characterized by a high level of destruction, namely residences, churches and social infrastructures as schools and health centers.”