Mozambique's defence forces are fighting to regain control of the key port of Mocimboa da Praia, after reports it fell to Islamist militants on Wednesday, August 12.

An Islamist rebellion in a remote corner of gas-rich north of Mozambique has erupted into open warfare in recent weeks.

According to media reports, the militants who are linked to the Islamic State group have briefly taken a number of northern towns in recent months, displacing thousands of people.

International gas companies are reportedly getting cold feet, partly because of the rising insecurity.