Mali: Deadly attack in Menaka region Nov. 24

Event

On Friday, November 24, suspected jihadists militants attacked peacekeepers from the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and Malian soldiers who were carrying out a joint operation in the Menaka region (northeast, near the Nigerien border). According to MINUSMA, at least three peacekeepers and one Malian soldier were killed in the attack and several others were wounded. Several assailants were also killed. Additional security forces have been deployed to the area.

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 stationed throughout the Sahel. Additionally, MINUSMA is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world. Over 85 MINUSMA staff have been killed and nearly 500 have been seriously injured in incidents since July 2013.

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 prevalent 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.