Mali: US Embassy issues security warning on possible imminent terrorist attack in Bamako March 18

Event

On March 18, the US Embassy in Mali issued an alert stating it had received information that a terrorist attack may be imminent in Bamako. The advisory indicated that possible targets include diplomatic facilities or relatively vulnerable targets, such as hotels. The embassy did not provide any clarification concerning the nature or source of the information it had received; further details were not provided.

No other diplomatic missions in Mali have yet issued similar advisories, though warnings may be released in the coming days. Local officials and security personnel have not commented on the embassy's warning; however, the suggestion that terrorist groups could be planning attacks will likely prompt officials to deploy additional security forces near sensitive areas in Bamako.

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.