This is the heaviest loss of life for security forces since the Palma attack in March 2021.
There were other attacks in Chiure, where several churches were burned, as well as in Macomia, Meluco and Quissanga.
Islamic State supporters welcomed the offensive, saying it was part of a broader international campaign by the group called “kill them wherever you find them.”
However, analysts believe the insurgency is only loosely linked to Islamic State, with militants motivated by local grievances but taking on the role of the notorious group to sow fear and give their attacks greater publicity .
Borges Nhamirre, a researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, said the insurgents are railing against neglect, poor governance and discrimination against Muslims.
Since Mozambique gained independence from Portugal in 1975, it has been governed by Frelimo, also known as Frente de Libertação de Moçambique, a democratic socialist political party.
“Activists have rebelled for a long time against Frelimo’s poor governance,” Nhamirre said.
Muslims, who make up about 17 percent of the population and live largely in the north, make their living primarily from fishing.
“They have long been deprived of adequate social services like education and health care,” he said. “There is therefore little loyalty to the state. »
