22 Aug 2020 | 02:44 PM UTC
Mali: Security forces killed in mine strike near Koro (Mopti region) August 22
Malian soldiers killed in mine strike in Koro area of Mopti region on August 22; further attacks likely in medium term
Event
At least four Malian soldiers were killed and another injured on Saturday, August 22, when their vehicle was hit by an explosion in the Koro area of the Mopti region. The Rapid Action Monitoring and Intervention Group (GARSI) forces were reportedly patrolling near the border with Burkina Faso when the vehicle struck a suspected improvised explosive device (IED).
The incident comes a day after two Malian gendarmes were killed and four others injured in a similar IED strike in the Bandiagara area, around 72km (45 miles) northwest of Koro.
Further security operations and roadside IED attacks are likely in the area in the medium 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.
