Mali: Militants attack French military outpost in Ménaka region March 10

Event

On Sunday, March 10, jihadist militants reportedly attacked a French military outpost in Abakar (Ménaka region). According to French officials, the militants detonated a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) near the outpost before engaging French forces with small arms. At least two soldiers were seriously wounded and subsequently evacuated to France for medical treatment. Further such attacks are possible in the coming days and weeks.   

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world. Since 2013, 170 peacekeepers have been killed in Mali.

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.