Four Christians have been killed, and one reportedly beheaded in a wave of jihadist attacks in northern Mozambique, according to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).

Bishop Alberto Vera of Nacala, whose diocese covers Nampula, where the murders took place, said that since 10th November 2025 several settlements have been attacked, hundreds of houses set on fire and thousands of people forced to flee. 

Bishop Vera, told the Catholic charity, ACN: “It was a week of terror and much suffering … in some places most of the houses were burned, and people have been killed.” 

He said: "Thousands of families are suffering and trying to escape the terrorists, the situation is very confusing, and in some places most of the houses were burned, and people have been killed."

He added: "There are also reports of at least two chapels destroyed by the insurgents.”

The bishop also reported that terrorists claiming Islamic State allegiance have kidnapped women and children.

According to the United Nations, around 128,000 people have fled their homes in just one week following the attacks. 

Since 2017, violent extremist attacks have been taking place in the neighbouring province of Cabo Delgado, where at least 4,500 people have been killed and more than one million displaced.

Violence is not new in Memba. In September 2022, Sister Maria de Coppi was martyred when her mission was attacked.

Bishop Alberto Vera appealed for prayers. He said: “Pray a lot for us, because this is an incomprehensible, intolerable reality."