02 Aug 2019 | 03:47 PM UTC
Mali: Recent attacks leave at least 20 dead in Bandiagara cercle (Mopti region) as of August 1 /update 1
Recent attacks by unidentified assailants leave at least 20 people dead in Bandiagara cercle (Mopti region) as of August 1; similar attacks possible in Mopti region over the near term
Event
Attacks by unidentified assailants in recent days have left at least 20 civilians dead in Bandiagara cercle (Mopti region) as of Thursday, August 1. The attacks reportedly took place in Goundaka village and Sangha commune as Malian Prime Minister Boubou Cisse visited Mopti region.
Similar attacks are possible in Mopti region over 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 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.
