14 Aug 2017 | 05:59 PM UTC
Mali: Suspected Al-Qa'ida militants kill two in Mopti region August 14
Suspected Al-Qa'ida attack on MINUSMA camp kills two August 14, prompting deployment of Malian troop reinforcements; separate attack on UN mission also reported in Timbuktu
Event
Suspected militants from Al-Qai'da in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) launched an attack on a United Nations Integrated Multidimensional Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) camp located in Douentza (Mopti region) on Monday, August 14. A MINUSMA peacekeeper and a member of the Malian armed forces were killed in the attack before the suspected AQIM assailants were repelled by Malian military forces. Additional Malian troop reinforcements have been sent to secure the area.
In addition, emerging reports indicate another UN peacekeeping mission was also attacked by unknown assailants on Monday in the city of Timbuktu. In response, the UN mission deployed a quick reaction force and helicopters to the scene. However, further details – including the identity of the attackers or potential casualty numbers – are not currently available. As of late afternoon (local time) on Monday, sporadic gunfire continued to be reported in Timbuktu.
Context
Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4000 troops who are stationed throughout the Sahel. The United Nations also maintains one of its largest peacekeeping missions in the world in the country (MINUSMA).
Advice
The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevailing in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.
