A terrorist attack in Mozambique has left two wildlife rangers dead and others missing at a conservation partner site supported by the Houston Zoo, highlighting growing violence in the region.
The Houston Zoo has reported that its longstanding conservation partner in Mozambique, the Niassa Carnivore Project, was the victim of a violent terrorist attack in April, according to a public statement released by the zoo. An attack in the Niassa Special Reserve has been claimed by ISIS-Mozambique, a branch of the Islamic State that operates in northern Mozambique.
In a tragic incident, two anti-poaching rangers associated with the project lost their lives as militants attacked the project's base. A third ranger sustained serious injuries but has since been stabilized following emergency medical intervention. As of early May, two additional team members were still unaccounted for, prompting the organization to work tirelessly to evaluate the damage and prioritize the safety of its personnel.
Since 2009, the Houston Zoo has collaborated with the Niassa Carnivore Project to safeguard endangered carnivores, including lions and African painted dogs. Proceeds from the zoo have been instrumental in financing anti-poaching patrols, implementing community-based conservation strategies, and supporting research efforts in one of Africa’s vital wildlife reserves.
A spokesperson for the Houston Zoo stated, “This attack is not just a tragedy for our partners, but a devastating blow to conservation in a region where threats to wildlife and human life are rising.”
The recent assault on the project’s base marks a continuation of the rising tide of violence in Northern Mozambique, as ISIS-linked insurgents intensify their deadly campaign against military and civilian targets alike. In early April, a luxury hunting camp within the reserve was reportedly destroyed by militants, resulting in the deaths of both staff and soldiers, as reported by Caxton Network News.
Due to persistent terror threats in the region, the U.S. Department of State has announced a Level 4: Do Not Travel advisory for areas in Cabo Delgado and Nampula provinces. Mozambique continues to be classified under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory, attributed to ongoing issues related to terrorism, civil unrest, and health risks.
The Niassa Carnivore Project has announced that it is now accepting donations to provide medical care, facilitate evacuations, and assist victims' families.
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