Russian vessel under fire in Mozambican waters
Russian Oceanographic Vessel 'Atlantida' Attacked off Mozambique Coast
An alleged attack on a Russian oceanographic vessel occurred on May 10, 2024, off the coast of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. The vessel was conducting marine scientific research in the area when it was attacked by unidentified gunmen near the Quirimbas archipelago.
According to a government spokesperson, the attack took place as the vessel returned to Maputo port. Two unidentified vessels approached the Russian vessel, resulting in gunfire that left minor damage to the ship. No casualties were reported among the vessel's crew.
The Russian embassy in Maputo confirmed the incident on May 16. Following the attack, the vessel temporarily stopped in Maputo before resuming its journey to South Africa.
The Mozambican government is actively investigating the incident and emphasizes its commitment to ensuring security in territorial waters. To date, no official communication has been received from the Russian side.
There are unconfirmed reports linking the attack to the activities of militants associated with ISIL. If true, this would mark the first such attack of its kind in the region. According to the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, at least 349 people were killed in extremist attacks in Cabo Delgado in 2024 alone.
It is important to note that the Mozambican authorities have not publicly confirmed these links and continue to investigate the incident thoroughly.
In 2024, reports emerged that Mozambique was planning to resume construction of the most expensive plant for producing liquefied natural gas in Africa. However, this background information is not directly relevant to the incident involving the 'Atlantida.'
- The Russian government has issued a statement regarding the unprovoked attack on their oceanographic vessel, 'Atlantida,' off the Mozambique coast, expressing concern over potential war-and-conflicts and political implications arising from the incident.
- As the world watches, the general news headlines are filled with the ongoing investigation by the Mozambican government into the unusual attack on the 'Atlantida,' and the possible connections to war-and-conflicts, specifically those involving militants associated with ISIL, casting a shadow over the previously tranquil region.
