Mozambique government clarifies presence of armed men in Macossa

The Mozambican government has clarified that the armed men recently seen in the Macossa district of Manica province were members of the state's Defense and Security Forces (FDS) conducting routine patrols. The presence of individuals carrying AK-47 type weapons in the Hombeshaua area caused significant apprehension and fear among local residents, particularly after reports surfaced of unidentified men stopping vehicles.

District Administrator Albano Muiambo stated that the local anxiety was unfounded and resulted from a lack of knowledge regarding the mission. He assured the population that the security forces were operating in the mining region to maintain order. Muiambo appealed to the community to remain calm and to avoid spreading unverified or alarmist information that could cause unrest.

This follows previous warnings from Mozambique's Attorney General, Américo Letela, regarding the circulation of armed individuals in mining areas. The district is a significant hub for gold extraction, as well as the mining of tourmaline and garnet. While the specific unit has completed its task, authorities noted that security patrols may continue in the region to protect mining activities involving both national and foreign citizens.