Mali: Militants wound at least 20 UN peacekeepers in an attack in Mopti, Feb. 10

Event

Unidentified militants wounded at least 20 United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) personnel during an attack on a security position in Kerena, Mopti Region, Feb. 10. The attack occurred at approximately 0700. Authorities have confirmed the assault, noting that some of the casualties have sustained serious injuries. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attack.

Context

The assault underscores the pervasive insecurity in central Mali. Islamist militants or affiliated groups waging an insurgency in central and northern Mali almost certainly perpetrated the attack. Hundreds of UN and other foreign security personnel have been killed in Mali since 2013. Despite continued security operations in affected areas, armed groups in these regions continue to demonstrate an increased capability to strike civilian and military targets, as well as peacekeeping forces. The security situation in the Mopti region is further undermined by local rivalries and sporadic communal violence between Dogon and Fulani communities, as well as issues such as lawlessness and banditry.