Monthly Counter-Terrorism Intelligence Brief for East and Central Africa (Somalia, Mozambique, and DR-Congo): Tracking Islamic State Terrorists in April 2024

In April 2024, the activities of Islamic State militants in these areas underscored the ongoing challenges faced by local security forces and international peacekeeping missions. From violent clashes and armed assaults to territorial expansions and strategic withdrawals, the dynamics within these regions reflect the complex interplay of security, governance, and regional cooperation.

In Mozambique, Islamic State militants (ISM) intensified their attacks in Nampula Province, targeting civilian populations and Christian communities. The withdrawal of South African, Botswana, and Lesotho contingents from Cabo Delgado poses significant security implications, leaving a void in the region’s defense against insurgency. The consolidation of ISM’s control and the displacement of thousands underscore the urgent need for strengthened security measures and addressing underlying grievances.

Similarly, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) launched numerous assaults on civilians and security forces in Ituri and North Kivu provinces. The phased withdrawal of the United Nations peacekeeping mission (MONUSCO) raises concerns about the capacity of local forces to fill the security vacuum. Despite regional initiatives like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), challenges persist in maintaining stability amidst ongoing terrorist threats.

In Somalia, Islamic State Somalia (ISS) expanded its presence in northern regions, challenging al Shabaab’s dominance. The territorial gains and clashes with rival groups indicate ISM’s aspirations for regional influence and potential global ramifications. Additionally, arrests of individuals linked to ISM in Sweden highlight the transnational nature of terrorism and the challenges faced in countering extremist ideologies.

Overall, while the withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces signifies progress towards sovereignty, it also underscores the need for enhanced regional cooperation, bolstered security measures, and addressing root causes of conflict to ensure lasting peace and stability in East and Central Africa.

MOZAMBIQUE

• 26^th April– ISM militants clashed with Mozambican Armed Forces and burnt at least 11 Christians homes in Metaca in Eráti District, Nampula Province.
• 26^th April– ISM insurgents conducted an armed assault against civilians in Manika, Eráti District of Nampula province.
• 25^th April- ISM militants led an armed assault on civilians, burning 190 houses in Nauacha, Eráti District, Nampula Province.
• 25^th April- ISM militants conducted an attacks and arson against civilian targets in Mecolene village in Chiure district In Cabo Delgado (CD).
• 25^th April- Several Christian homes wereburned to the ground in Nantavo area in Chiure district.
• 24^th April- ISM terrorists executed a member of the Mozambican army in Ilha Quifuqui Island in Mocimboa da Praia (MDP).
• 20^th April- Villagers were able to intercept and arrest 5 suspected ISM terrorists in Mahipa Ocua in Chiure district.
• 23^rd April- ISM militants conducted an attack and arson against Christian village of Magaia in Chiure district where they beheaded one person.
• 19^th April- terrorists clashed with militia forces in Nanjua village in Ancuabe district where they burned a church.
• 15^th April- Mozambican Army positions were attacked by ISM in Nambala village in Macomia.
• 16^th April- ISM militants attempted to gain loyalty and sympathy of the locals in Quissanga
• 10^th April- ISM took credit for the decapitation of people new Namaluco in Quissanga.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

• 24^th April- Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) launched an armed assault against civilians in Idohu, Ituri Province.
• 24^th April- Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) launched an armed assault against civilians in Mundubiena in North Kivu Province.
• 23^rd April- civilians were attacked by armed ISCAP militants on RN4 in Mavivi area in Ituri.
• 20^th April- 2 Congolese soldiers riding on a motorbike were assassinated ISCAP militants near Idohu, Ituri.
• 19^th April- ISCAP terrorists captured and executed a Christian near Ndalya village on the Komanda-Luna road in Ituri.
• 18^th April- ISCAP terrorists captured and executed a Christian near Erengeti area in Ituri.
• 18^th April- IS militants launched an armed assault against civilian positions in Mangodomu in North Kivu.
• 18^th April- IS militants launched an armed assault against civilian positions in Mundubiena in North Kivu.
• 17^th April- ISCAP insurgents clashed with a local militia in Mamove are in North Kivu.
• 17^th April- IS militants launched an armed assault against Congolese military in Mohoyo area of Ituri.
• 17^th April- civilians were attacked by ISCAP militants in Kubukubu, North Kivu.
• 17^th April- IS militants launched an armed assault against civilian positions in Mundubiena in North Kivu.
• 16^th April- a joint Ugandan Congolese foot patrol unit was targeted by IS militants in Mundubiena village in North Kivu.
• 14^th April- IS militants clashed with a Congolese and local militia forces on foot patrol in Mambasa village in Ituri.
• 14^th April- Congolese armed forces were attacked by IS terrorists in Mambasa village in Ituri.
• 14^th April- civilians in Ndalya village on the Komanda-Luna road in Ituri were attacked by insurgents.
• 13^th April- Congolese police officers were attacked by the Islamists between Sayo and Mapemba in Ituri.
• 13^th April- Civilians in Mapemba village in Ituri were attacked by insurgents.
• 13^th April- ISCAP militants conducted an armed attack on civilians in Ndalya village on the Komanda-Luna road in Ituri.
• 12^th April- Sayo, Tokuo and Burutsu village were attacked by ISCAP militants in North Kivu.
• 11^th April- several people were injured after an IS attack against civilians in Sayo village in North Kivu.
• 09^th April- there was an armed assault led by ISCAP on civilians in Ofaye Otto Maber Village, on Komanda-Eringeti Road, Ituri
• 07^th April- 8 Christians were captured and executed by ISCAP in Ofaye Otto Maber Village, on Komanda-Eringeti Road, Ituri.
• 08^th April- Chinese mine workers were attacked by IS insurgnets in Teturi area in Ituri.
• 5^th April- four Christians were attacked, captured and executed following an armed assault against civilians in Bandiseme village, Ituri.
• 5^th April- 2 Christians were captured and executed by ISCAP in Ofaye Otto Maber Village, on Komanda-Eringeti Road, Ituri.
• 3^rd April- civilians and security forces in Mangina in North Kivu were attacked by an attack from ISCAP militants.
• 2^nd April- the Christian village of Mangodomu was attacked by ISCAP.

SOMALIA

• 11^th– 21^ST April- Islamic State Somalia (ISS) Militants conducted attacks against Al Shabaab forces in Galgala Mountains in Bari, Puntland. ISIS Central claimed the attacks and claimed that at least 50 al Shabaab members were killed while the others surrendered their weapons to IS militants.

MOZAMBIQUE

SAMIM contingents from South Africa, Botswana, and Lesotho have formally announced their departure from Cabo Delgado, leaving Tanzania as the sole remaining partner with troops in the region. Botswana withdrew its forces on April 5th, followed by South Africa and Lesotho, who conducted farewell parades on April 7th and April 14th respectively. However, there is still a small South African presence in Muagumula near Macomia town. The Tanzanian forces remaining in Nangade district operate under a bilateral security agreement with Mozambique, which is expected to continue beyond the mission’s official conclusion on July 15th.

The withdrawal of SAMIM forces from Cabo Delgado has immediate and long-term security implications for the region. Firstly, SAMIM’s departure leaves a void in the security architecture of Cabo Delgado, potentially diminishing the capacity to effectively combat insurgency. The absence of international troops, particularly those with specialized training and resources, could weaken the overall defense against terrorist groups operating in the area.

The absence of SAMIM forces could potentially embolden insurgent groups operating in Cabo Delgado, as evidenced by recent attacks and the continued control of strategic areas such as the Macomia district coast. The withdrawal may create security vacuums, allowing insurgents to expand their influence and conduct further destabilizing activities, including attacks on civilian populations and critical infrastructure.

Intelligence continue to indicate that the group appears to be organizing itself and restructuring in a manner that clearly shows that it is far from defeated and that the drawdown from the SAMIM troops will only give them an opportunity to expand. This conclusion is culminated by chatter that the group in April has been attempting to gain loyalty from locals in Quissanga and other areas in CD. Additionally, HUMINT reported a large group of militants including women and children moving south from Mucojo in Macomia district.

The attacks in Nampula province, after an absence of over 18 months, mark a significant escalation in their operations and a concerning expansion of their reach beyond Cabo Delgado. ISM’s move south, seemingly unimpeded, underscores the inability of state forces to provide adequate security in the affected areas. Their brazen attacks on rural communities, including the burning of homes and destruction of a church, aim to sow fear and exert control over the populace, further highlighting the state’s failures in maintaining stability. The displacement of over 40,000 residents in just a few weeks illustrates the devastating impact of ISM’s actions on local communities. As the SAMIM mission concludes and international support dwindles, the burden on security forces, civic administration, and affected communities is likely to intensify, posing a grave challenge to regional stability and security in Mozambique. Efforts to address the underlying grievances and vulnerabilities that contribute to the insurgency must be prioritized to prevent further escalation of violence and insecurity in the region.

Islamic State’s spokesperson, Abu Hudhaifa al-Ansari, recently issued a statement marking the ten-year anniversary of IS’s founding, with a notable emphasis on praising the actions of ISM in Mozambique. This seventh statement since March 2022 lauded ISM as the “knights of Mozambique Wilayah,” commending their efforts in displacing Christians and upholding Sharia law. The statement underscored ISM’s significant role in enforcing Sharia principles, including regulating daily activities such as prayer, attire, and the prohibition of alcohol and tobacco in coastal areas of the Macomia district. Despite potential exaggerations in IS rhetoric, the lavish praise bestowed upon ISM highlights its perceived importance within the broader IS network, particularly in Mozambique, where it exerts considerable control and influence.

SOMALIA

ISM appears to have taken advantage of the chaos is south Somalia to capture new territory in the northern regions in Puntland. Intelligence indicates that ISM expanded its presence and even taken control of the Al Miskaad mountain range from its rival, Al-Shabab. Al Miskaad’s strategic importance arises from the cover and water it provides, and because Mumin’s clan resides in its vicinity, offering protection to the group which has reportedly been receiving recruits from East Africa especially Ethiopia.

ISM has claimed to have expanded its control over mountainous regions in northern Somalia, reportedly surpassing al Qaeda’s affiliate, al Shabaab. This territorial gain could bolster the regional IS presence, potentially facilitating support for global Islamic State activities, including financing external attack plots in Asia and the West through ISKP. The growing strongholds in northern Somalia may attract foreign fighters from neighbouring countries and Europe, heightening the risk of the group’s involvement in external attacks. This is further evidenced by the attack by ISM against al Shabaab in mid-April.

The Swedish Security Service (Säpo) has arrested a 60-year-old imam in Tyresö, south of Stockholm, suspected of active involvement with the Islamic State in Somalia. This follows earlier detentions of four individuals linked to terrorism, including two converts to Islam. The imam, a long-standing figure in the community, led the mosque and taught Islam to children and youth. His arrest has shocked community members, who struggle to reconcile the accusations with their perception of him. The mosque received significant state funding, raising concerns about trust in government-funded religious organizations. The imam denies all charges, but the community faces the challenge of maintaining cohesion and trust amid heightened scrutiny and anxiety regarding Islamist extremism in Sweden.

DRC

The United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), known as Monusco, initiated its withdrawal from the country after 25 years with expected to take place in phases starting in South KivU. After South Kivu, the second and third pullout phases will cover Ituri and North Kivu, with regular assessments of progress.

The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has been a key player in efforts to maintain peace and security in the DRC. With a mandate spanning over two decades, MONUSCO has undertaken various tasks, including protecting civilians, supporting the government in stabilizing conflict-affected areas, and facilitating political dialogue.

Despite MONUSCO’s efforts, challenges persist in the DRC, particularly in the eastern regions where armed groups continue to operate. The withdrawal of MONUSCO, as mandated by the agreement between the DRC government and the United Nations, poses significant challenges. While the withdrawal signifies progress towards the country’s sovereignty and stability, concerns have been raised about the ability of local forces, such as the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) and regional initiatives like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), to effectively fill the security vacuum left by MONUSCO.

South Africa, as a member of the SADC, has been actively involved in peacekeeping efforts in the DRC. The deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) personnel under Operation Mistral within the framework of MONUSCO underscores South Africa’s commitment to regional peace and stability. Additionally, the establishment of SAMIDRC, comprising forces from South Africa, Malawi, Tanzania, and elements of the FARDC, demonstrates the regional approach to addressing security challenges in the DRC.

While it appears as simple as one filling the gap left by the exit of another; the success of SAMIDRC hinges on several factors, including adequate troop numbers, resources, and coordination among participating countries. The recent casualties suffered by SAMIDRC troops underscore the ongoing security threats in the DRC and the need for robust peacekeeping capabilities. Moreover, the withdrawal of MONUSCO presents an opportunity for the Congolese government to strengthen its security institutions, enhance governance, and address the root causes of conflict.

While challenges still remain, there is reason for cautious optimism regarding the prospects for peace and stability in the DRC. By leveraging regional cooperation, strengthening local security forces, and addressing underlying grievances, the international community can help pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future for the people of the DRC.

CONCLUSION

The recent developments in East and Central Africa underscore the multifaceted challenges posed by terrorism and the complexities of addressing them effectively. As Islamic State-affiliated groups continue to assert their presence and expand their influence in Mozambique, the DRC, and Somalia, the regional security landscape remains precarious.

The rise of Islamic State-affiliated groups in East and Central Africa reflects broader global trends in terrorism and insurgency. The exploitation of local grievances, porous borders, and weak governance structures provide fertile ground for extremist groups to thrive and expand their influence. In Mozambique, ISM’s ability to conduct brazen attacks and displace thousands of civilians highlights the inadequacies of state security forces and the challenges of maintaining territorial integrity in the face of insurgency.

Similarly, in the DRC, the withdrawal of MONUSCO poses significant challenges to the country’s stability, as armed groups continue to operate in the eastern regions. While regional initiatives like SAMIDRC offer potential avenues for addressing security threats, concerns persist about the capacity and coordination of local forces in effectively countering terrorism and maintaining peace.

In Somalia, the power dynamics between Islamic State Somalia and al Shabaab further complicate efforts to stabilize the region. ISM’s territorial gains and clashes with rival groups underscore the fluid nature of alliances and the potential for shifting dynamics to impact regional security.

The month of April witnessed a concerning escalation of terrorist activities across East and Central Africa, particularly in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Somalia. Islamic State-affiliated groups, including ISM in Mozambique, ISCAP in the DRC, and ISS in Somalia, demonstrated their capacity to conduct brazen attacks, target civilian populations, and expand their territorial control. The withdrawal of international peacekeeping forces, such as SAMIM in Mozambique and MONUSCO in the DRC, has left a security vacuum that insurgents are eager to exploit. This withdrawal raises questions about the readiness and capability of local security forces to effectively counter the growing threat of terrorism and maintain stability in their respective regions.

The transnational nature of terrorism, as evidenced by arrests linked to Islamic State Somalia in Sweden, highlights the global reach and interconnectedness of extremist networks. This underscores the importance of coordinated efforts on both national and international levels to combat radicalization, disrupt terrorist financing, and prevent the spread of violent ideologies.

As East and Central Africa grapple with the persistent threat of terrorism, it is imperative for regional governments to prioritize security cooperation, strengthen governance structures, and address underlying grievances to prevent further escalation of violence. The month of April serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for concerted action to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of communities affected by terrorism and to promote lasting peace and stability in the region.