A group of Islamic terrorists in Cabo Delgado province, in northern Mozambique, launched their first significant naval operation on Saturday (11), when two speedboats boarded a Russian oceanographic vessel off the island of Tambuzi, near the town of Mocimboa da Praia.

According to a report in the electronic newspaper, "Mozambique Times", quoted by AIMThe attack took place at around 3.20pm, about four nautical miles east of the island. According to security sources quoted by the newspaper, the speedboats opened fire on the Russian ship "Atlantida K-1704", which escaped by fleeing into deeper waters and away from the coast.

At around 4pm, a distress signal was picked up, presumably coming from the Russian ship. Although the transmission was weak, the words "pirate" and "attack" could be heard, confirming a serious incident. At 4.45pm, the "Atlantida K-1704" contacted a nearby ship to alert it to the presence of the attackers and their exact location.

This is the first time terrorists have attacked a foreign-flagged ship. Previously, terrorist activities at sea were restricted to attacking fishing boats and kidnapping fishermen. The Mozambican authorities have yet to comment on the incident.

(Photo DR)