Mali: Unidentified gunmen kill at least 41 people in Mopti region June 17 /update 1

Event

Unidentified gunmen killed at least 41 people, mostly ethnic Dogons, in Gangafani and Yoro villages in Mopti region on Monday, June 17, according to a statement from the mayor of Yoro issued Tuesday, June 18.

Similar violence and retaliatory attacks are possible in Mopti region over the coming 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, some 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.