The recent beheading of two individuals by suspected Islamist militants in northern Mozambique has sparked alarm, particularly because such atrocities had become less frequent in recent years.
This reduction in violence was partially attributed to the deployment of regional troops two years ago, assisting the national army in reclaiming territory from the jihadists in Cabo Delgado province.
While the presence of these troops allowed some people to return to their villages, it also created an opportunity for retreating insurgents to establish relationships with villagers, often buying food from them.
In recent times, the militants have shifted their focus from local populations to primarily targeting the defense forces.
However, on Monday, the decapitated bodies of two fishermen were discovered in a bush near the village of Litamanda in Macomia district.
It is believed that the killings occurred over the weekend, with witnesses reporting the presence of a group of militants near the victims’ residence, located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Litamanda.
This incident follows another beheading that took place in Cabo Delgado two months prior.
The resurgence of such brutal acts is causing significant concern among villagers in the region who had hoped for an end to the six-year-long insurgency. The unsettling events underscore the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting peace and security in the area.