Rwandan Forces together with those of the Mozambique Army and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have already secured the rescue of more than 600 civilians since the offensive operations began in April this year.

According to a statement from the Rwandan Defense Forces, quoted by the Rwandan newspaper New Times, the Islamic State in Mozambique (IS-MOZ) terrorist groups were forced to flee to the towns of Nkoe and Nguida in the same district, where they continue to be pursued by the joint forces.

Abdulahim Abrugo, 59, kidnapped by terrorists a year ago, thanked the joint forces that rescued him in the Catupa forest and applauded the courage of the Rwandan Forces who assured him that they would bring back his daughter from the hands of the terrorists.

Rwanda began sending 1,000 Defense Forces (RDF) and National Police (RNP) personnel to Mozambique on July 9, 2021, to fight terrorists in Cabo Delgado, honoring Mozambique's request. The Rwandan contingent increased to nearly 2,000 by the end of 2021.

The situation in Cabo Delgado has worsened since October 2017, when terrorists launched attacks in the province. Before the intervention of Rwandan troops, terrorists killed 3,000 civilians, while more than 800,000 became displaced. Insecurity had also paralyzed all development projects in the areas controlled by the terrorists. (Letter)