Editor’s Note
This report details a fatal attack on security personnel at a major ruby mine in northern Mozambique. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the resource-rich Cabo Delgado province.
Two police officers were killed in an attack at Gemfields’ Montepuez ruby mine in Mozambique’s northern Cabo Delgado province. The incident occurred on Tuesday, according to local authorities. The attackers, whose identity and motives remain unclear, targeted a security post at the mine’s perimeter.
Gemfields, the London-based mining company, confirmed the attack and stated that operations at the mine have been temporarily suspended. The company is cooperating fully with Mozambican authorities in the investigation. A government spokesperson issued a statement condemning the violence and vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Cabo Delgado province has experienced sporadic insurgent violence linked to Islamist militant groups in recent years, though it is not yet confirmed if this attack is connected. The Montepuez mine is one of the world’s most significant sources of rubies.
