Renamo violates ceasefire

MAPUTO (AFP) - Rebels of the Mozambique National Resistance (Renamo) have violated their ceasefire with the government by occupying the port of Angoche in the northern province of Nampula, a senior local official said.

The provincial governor, Alfredo Gamito, told journalists in Nampula city that Renamo had seized Angoche late on Sunday, after two unsuccessful attempts to breach the port's defences. Mr Gamito said he was 'surprised' at the attacks, given that both sides had pledged to halt all offensive operations even before the ceasefire took effect formally last Thursday. Six of 20 UN military observers sent to Mozambique were due to arrive in Nampula today, and the authorities intend to raise Renamo's seizure of Angoche with them.