Mali: Gunmen ambush government troops in Boulikessi (Mopti region) on September 23

Event

Unidentified gunmen killed three soldiers during an ambush which occurred to the south of Boulikessi (Mopti region) on Wednesday, September 23. The attackers also wounded four others when they fired on the patrol at 12:45 (local time). The Defense Ministry stated that at least 15 assailants were wounded in the attack.

Further clashes between militants and security forces are to be expected in the Mopti region 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, a French-led intervention launched in 2013, and regional security efforts. Areas along the border with Burkina Faso have become particularly unstable in recent months, as militant groups increasingly operate across the frontier.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions, and those in the country should heed any directives issued by local authorities. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.