Mali: Unidentified gunmen attack civilians near Menaka on July 11

Event

Unidentified gunmen attacked a vehicle near Menaka (Northeast) on Thursday, July 11, killing five civilians. The armed men then headed towards a nearby settlement, killing two other people, before fleeing.

Similar violence and retaliatory attacks are possible in the Menaka 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), 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.