'Last major push' against insurgents in Mozambique

Rwandan and Mozambican troops have reportedly encircled militants in Mozambique's northern Cabo Delgado province ahead of a "last major military push" against the Islamic State-linked insurgents.

The forces are surrounding the militants in the areas of Siri I and Siri II.

The military push comes barely four days after the joint forces seized Mbau - another key insurgent stronghold - after a fierce battle.

Military sources reported that more than 100 people were released from jihadist captivity, and dozens of militants were killed.

On 8 August, the joint forces drove out insurgents from Mocimboa da Praia, a port city that had been the headquarters of the militants for more than three years.

After fleeing the city, the insurgents moved further southwards into the thick forests of Mbau. Siri I and Siri II are the insurgents only remaining major hideouts in Mocimboa da Praia.

In July, Rwanda deployed 1,000 troops to Cabo Delgado at the request of Mozambique to help fight the jihadists, stabilise the area and restore the authority of the state.

This article originally appeared on BBC News

Photo: AFP via Getty Images