01 Mar 2018 | 04:21 PM UTC
Mali: IED kills four UN peacekeepers in Mopti Feb. 28
IED detonates near UN peacekeeper vehicle in Mopti region February 28, killing four people
Event
A mine or improvised explosive device (IED) blast killed four UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) peacekeepers, and severely wounded four more, in Mopti region on Wednesday, February 28. The peacekeepers' vehicle reportedly struck the explosive device around 14:00 (local time) on the road between the towns of Boni and Douentza. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.
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, in addition to the presence of local military troops.
MINUSMA is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world. Militants frequently target the mission, and more than 100 peacekeepers have been killed since 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.
