Mozambique: ‘Significant’ number of fighters dead in Palma battle

As thousands seek refuge in Pemba, aid workers worry about pressure on food supplies after armed group attack.

Mozambique’s military said a “significant” number of fighters were killed in the battle for the northern town and gas hub of Palma seized by ISIL-affiliated assailants last month. Commander Chongo Vidigal, leader of military operations to regain control of Palma, told state television TVM the area was “safe,” although he fell short of declaring the army had regained control. “The airfield area was the only one we needed to clear and we did that this morning. It’s completely safe,” Vidigal told journalists on Sunday.