The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is concerned about the increase in cases of child abduction by armed groups in Cabo Delgado province, northern Mozambique.

In a post published by the agency on one of its social media pages, we read that "this includes the report of the kidnapping of seven children in Mocímboa da Praia, Cabo Delgado province, which allegedly took place on January 23rd".

"UNICEF calls for the immediate release and handing over to the civilian authorities of the abducted children, and for an end to the abduction, recruitment and use of children, which constitute serious violations of children's rights," the statement reads.

According to the agency, "abducted children are often forced into combat and non-combat roles, which puts their safety and well-being at serious risk".

(Photo DR)