Mali: Heightened tensions in Niono (Ségou region) following killing of imam of N'Débougou November 2

Event

Suspected militants killed the imam of N'Débougou (Niono; Ségou region) on Monday evening, November 2, which has resulted in tensions between Dozo hunters and Fulani herdsmen on Tuesday, November 3, with both reportedly blaming one another for the death of the imam. There were reports of clashes between the two at the weekly market in Dogofry, near Farabougou (both Niono; Ségou region) on Tuesday, but exact details surrounding the incident were not immediately clear.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the near term. Further attacks are likely throughout Mali in 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, particularly in the north and central regions. 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, used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.