Mali: Curfew in Gao March 2-8 /update 1

Event

Authorities have imposed another week-long overnight curfew in the city of Gao, in place from Friday, March 2, to Thursday, March 8, between 20:00 and 06:00 (local time). The curfew was implemented following recent violent clashes between Songhai and Arab residents of the city, which broke out during demonstrations denouncing the kidnapping of two Arab merchants by unidentified armed men. Furthermore, the local governor has issued a city-wide ban on the possession of firearms; the Malian armed forces, along with Barkhane French forces, UN peacekeepers, and soldiers from the Operational Coordiantion Mechanism (MOC) are not concerned by these measures. An increased security presence has been deployed to the city.

Context

Tensions have been high between the Songhai and Arab communities since February 21, when the two Arab merchants were kidnapped. One of the abducted merchants was later found dead in the town of Gao, sparking various protests by Arab residents. Violent intercommunal clashes were reported in Gao on February 28, following the abovementioned demonstrations.

Advice

Individuals present in Gao are advised to remain vigilant and to avoid all gatherings as violence may flare up without warning.

As a reminder, 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.