Mali: Militants ambush security forces in Mopti region September 29

Event

At least two soldiers of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) were killed and seven others wounded in an ambush by militants in Mopti region on Tuesday, September 29. The incident occurred at around 15:20 (local time) between Boni and Nokara as a group of soldiers were traveling on the RN16 road between Hombori and Douentza. The injured were evacuated from the area by the air force and members of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA). Unconfirmed reports indicate another attack took place on FAMa forces in neighboring Segou region in the early hours of Wednesday morning, September 30. The attack reportedly took place in Sériwala in Niono Cercle, but no casualty figures have been confirmed. No group has claimed responsibility for either attack, although sources have indicated that the militant group Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wa al-Mulsimin' (JNIM) were responsible.

Further clashes between militants and security forces are to be expected in the 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 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.