04 Nov 2020 | 03:39 PM UTC
Mali: Militants kill eight in attack on minibus in Mopti region November 3
Unidentified gunmen kill eight minibus passengers during ambush between Bandiagara and Bankass in Mopti region on November 3; further attacks likely over the near term
Event
Militants killed eight people during an attack on a minibus in Mopti region on Tuesday, November 3. Unidentified gunmen ambushed the minibus between the settlements of Parou and Songhobia as it was traveling between the towns of Bandiagara and Bankass. Eight other passengers were seriously wounded and four escaped unharmed. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, although Islamist militant groups are known to operate in the region.
Security operations are possible in the area following the incident. Further militant attacks are likely across Mopti region 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, 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.
