SADC forces seize terrorists’ training base in Moz
Mbongeni Mguni | Saturday September 18, 2021 13:54
SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) spokesperson, Major Patrick Mfaladi of the Botswana Defence Force said the offense was launched on September 14 in an area south of the Messalo River in Cabo Delgado province.
“The base is believed to be known as ‘Sheik Ibrahim Base’ and was used as a training camp by the insurgency group,” Mfaladi said in an emailed statement. “Furthermore, light and heavy weapons were also seized left behind by the insurgents. “SAMIM forces also discovered a vast material of military training books and other aids to include communication devices and video content. “This capture and discovery will provide more insight on the operations of the insurgency group and provide SADC countries with information on the threat level of terrorism and extremism in the region.”
Mfaladi said SADC forces continued to support the Government of Mozambique in creating conditions necessary for a return to normal life in Cabo Delgado, through the pursuit of insurgents.
SADC forces, led by South Africa and deputised by Botswana, deployed to Cabo Delgado in July to fight a terrorist onslaught in the oil rich province that has seen more than 3,000 people killed since 2017, with reports of beheadings, disembowelling of expectant mothers and other brutalities.
Botswana contributed 300 soldiers to the SADC forces with Commander in Chief, President Mokgweetsi Masisi urging the troops to brace for a “deceptive enemy” likely to use “underhand tactics.