Mali: Unidentified militants kill at least 19 soldiers near Sokolo (Ségou region) January 26

Event

Unidentified assailants killed at least 19 soldiers and wounded five others in an attack on an army camp near Sokolo (Ségou region) early (local time) on Sunday, January 26. An army spokesman reported that the camp remains under security forces' control and that a search is underway for the militants.

Similar attacks are possible in Ségou region over the near term.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite 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 prevailing terrorism and kidnapping threats 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.