In 1899 the "Ibo Syndicate" became the "Ibo Investment Trust", which raised a small army provided by the Portuguese colonial administration, consisting of 300 Portuguese soldiers and 2800 "sepoys" (Indians recruited in other regions of Mozambique). From 1900 to 1902, the company was successfully able to occupy the inland regions of the concession, including Metangula on the banks of Lake Niassa.
In 1899, the "Ibo Syndicate" was rebranded as the "Ibo Investment Trust", which assembled a small military force backed by the Portuguese colonial administration. This force included 300 Portuguese soldiers and 2800 "sepoys" (Indians from other Mozambique regions). From 1900 to 1902, the company successfully controlled the inland areas within the concession, including Metangula on Lake Niassa's shores.