Mozambique has been embroiled in violent turmoil following misinformation surrounding a cholera outbreak, resulting in the deaths of at least three community leaders and the torching of approximately 50 homes, as per authorities’ reports.
The disturbances have been primarily instigated by the Naparamas, a militia group engaged in combatting jihadists in the northern Cabo Delgado province, officials stated.
Recent protests, blaming authorities for spreading cholera via medication, led to the destruction of over a dozen houses. Reports also indicate that the Naparamas demolished a cholera treatment facility.
Expressing concern, officials highlighted the potential for the Naparamas to exacerbate insecurity in Mozambique unless immediate actions are taken.
António Supeia, the secretary of state for Cabo Delgado, said earlier this month: “The Naparamas are confronting the state by attacking police, community leaders and preventing assistance to the population. “We already have other problems, such as people being raped due to terrorism. Leaders are mobilising populations daily to combat terrorism and we do not want another terror to emerge.”