03 Apr 2019 | 09:42 AM UTC
Mali: French military convoy ambushed in Gourma April 2
Suspected Islamist militants attack a French military convoy in Gourma (Timbuktu region) on April 2; one soldier killed
Event
Suspected Islamist militants ambushed a French military convoy in Gourma, in the northern Timbuktu region by triggering an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), on Tuesday, April 2. One soldier was killed and another wounded in the attack. Similar attacks are possible 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 MINUSMA, one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world, and a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds.
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.
