Mali: FLM militants kidnap teacher in Ténenkou (Mopti region)

Event

Members of the Front de Libération du Macina jihadist group claimed responsibility on Wednesday, December 26, for the abduction of a teacher in Ténenkou (Mopti region; center) on December 22. As of December 27, the whereabouts of the victim remains unknown. Additional FLM attacks targeting teachers are possible in central Mali in the near term.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of the MINUSMA, one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex. 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.