Mozambique soldiers kill 50 militants

Mozambican security forces have killed around 50 Islamist militants in the oil-rich northern province of Cabo Delgado over the past 10 days, the interior minister said on Thursday.

Amade Miquidade said the operation started on 4 May in seven districts of the province – including Nangade, Quissanga, Mocimboa da Praia, Meluco, Muidimbe and Mueda.

The minister accused the militants of causing injuries, carrying out abductions, looting and ambushes.

Mr Miquidade said the militants “aim to distract, demoralize and sow confusion within communities”.

He added that some eight militants were killed on Thursday in Quissanga district.

Islamist militants affiliated to the Islamic State (IS) group have attacked villages and towns in the province, killing hundreds and displacing thousands since 2017.-BBC