Mali: Multiple people killed in several militant attacks in Mopti region October 13

Event

At least 25 people were killed in several attacks carried out by militants in the Mopti region on Tuesday, October 13. The first incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday morning, with militants attacking a military base in Sokoura, near the border with Burkina Faso. A Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) convoy was subsequently ambushed at a bridge near the base at around 08:30 (local time) as they deployed to reinforce the outpost, with a further three soldiers being killed. The third attack, which took place at around 09:15, occurred near the town of Bandiagara when gunmen ambushed a commercial truck, killing 12 traders and one soldier. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks.

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 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.