Mali: French and US officials issue security warnings for Bamako and surrounding areas in March /update 1

Event

The French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs issued a warning March 18 noting the risk of kidnapping and the threat to Western nationals in Bamako and surrounding areas. The ministry reiterated the terrorism threat against the security forces and Western interests and that the risk of attack was elevated in public places frequented by Westerners. No specific intelligence was provided for an imminent incident or attack. The warning coincided with a security alert by the US Embassy in Mali March 18, which stated that it had obtained information indicating that an attack in Bamako may be imminent. Possible targets include diplomatic facilities or hotels; further details were not provided.

Embassy warnings may be updated or amended in the coming days. Local security forces may increase security patrols near vulnerable sites.

Context

The threat of terrorism is high in Mali. While terrorism is mainly concentrated in the northern region, militant violence has increased in recent years across central provinces. The threat also extends to Bamako. Foreign governments regularly issue warnings regarding terror threats in the country. Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), comprising Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and its allies, operate in Mali. These groups continue to assume responsibility for attacks in the country, typically targeting UN camps, military convoys, nonstate militia, government personnel, and private citizens and property. Common tactics employed in such attacks include improvised explosive devices, assassinations, complex ambushes, rocket and mortar fire, suicide attacks, bombings, car bombs, land mines, kidnappings, and armed assaults.

Advice

Exercise maximum caution if operating in Mali, including around government buildings, security installations, business and financial centers, diplomatic missions, and international organization offices. Limit exposure to identifiable targets; do not linger in lobbies or near entrances to hotels, restaurants, places of worship, or other crowded sites. Shop and dine during off-peak hours. To the extent possible, limit travel in or near popular public areas where Westerners congregate; minimize movement after nightfall.