Mali: Al-Qai'da claims September 30 attacks on army bases in Mopti region /update 2

Event

On Tuesday, October 8, Al-Qai'da's West Africa affiliate claimed responsibility for the September 30 attacks on army bases in Boulkessi and Mondoro in Mopti region. In a statement, Jama'a Nusrat ul-Islam wal-Muslimin claimed to have killed 85 soldiers, kidnapped two others, and seized a large cache of weapons in the coordinated assaults. Malian military officials, however, have denied the figures; the official death toll stands at 38. 

Similar attacks are possible 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.

Advice

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. 

The security environment in Mali remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.