The Mozambican military has rescued at least 280 women and children who were held captive by the Naparama militant group in the northern and central regions of the country. The victims had been confined for more than two weeks at a former guerrilla base in Zambezia province.
Brigadier General Bernado Ntchokomola, who led the operation, explained that the captives were being trained to join the militant group. During their captivity, the women were reportedly subjected to sexual abuse, while their children and husbands were forced to witness the acts.
The military is now working to return the victims to their communities, although many areas remain impacted by ongoing security concerns due to militant activity. The general noted that these communities have been living under a climate of fear created by the group’s presence.
The Naparama militant group, which originated during Mozambique’s civil war between 1977 and 1992, has seen a resurgence in recent years. The group is known for initiation rituals that are believed to offer its members supernatural protection.
In recent months, the group has been linked to a series of attacks in Mozambique’s northern and central provinces, raising concerns about the security situation in these regions.
The government has pledged to continue efforts to address the threat posed by the militant group and support the reintegration of those freed during the operation.