Mali: Suspected militants attack village in Mopti region June 13

Event

Suspected militants launched an attack in the Bandiagara Cercle (Mopti region) on Saturday, June 13, killing at least four civilians. The attack reportedly targeted the village of Sangha in the Bandiagara Cercle. The village is reportedly home to people from the Dogon ethnic group. Local officials believe the attack was carried out by Islamist militants, who regularly claim to be defending ethnic Fulani herders from rival Dogon farmers.

Similar militant attacks are possible in the 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.

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.