The Ministry of National Defense (MDN) has opened an investigation into whether the Armed Defense Forces of Mozambique (FADM) were involved in acts of torture, violence and atrocities against civilians in Afungi, Palma district, Cabo Delgado province, with a view to finding the truth.

In a statement, the MDN reaffirms the FADM's "unwavering" commitment to the highest standards of military discipline and respect for human rights and categorically refutes the allegations contained in an article published on September 26, 2024 in the newspaper politico.eu London.

"The Ministry of National Defense expresses its total openness and willingness to accept a transparent and impartial investigation into the allegations, with a view to finding the material truth, inviting anyone who wishes to collaborate, in good faith, in this regard," it reads.

According to the MDN, these are serious allegations about which no factual elements are presented to support them.

"Since 2021, the FADM and allied forces have made great progress in stabilizing the security of areas affected by terrorism in Cabo Delgado province, through operations that have resulted in the neutralization of several terrorist cells," the document states.

The MDN stresses that the commitment of the members of the Defense and Security Forces, in general, to the preservation of territorial integrity and respect for human rights remains unwavering.

In the note to which we have had access, the MDN reiterates that FADM units act in strict compliance with International Humanitarian Law and other rules related to the promotion and protection of human rights, which include the consolidation of civil-military relations, as well as the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights.