25 Jul 2022 | 10:47 AM UTC
Mali: Al-Qaeda affiliate claims responsibility for an attack on Kati military base July 22 /update 2
Al-Qaeda-linked Katiba Macina militants claim responsibility for an attack on Kati military base July 22. Further attacks are possible.
Event
Al-Qaeda-linked Katibat Macina militants have claimed responsibility for an attack against a military facility in Kati, located about 10 km (6 miles) north of Bamako, July 22. Militants cited the presence of Russian-owned Wagner security personnel in the country as the reason for the attack. The Malian Armed Forces had confirmed assailants attacked the base with two vehicle bombs at 05:00, killing one soldier and injuring seven others, including one civilian. Seven assailants were reportedly killed.
The US Embassy in Mali issued a security alert July 23, stating that US government employees are no longer advised to shelter in place. The Embassy has, however, advised employees to avoid nonessential travel, including crowded areas and venues frequented by Westerners, through July 27.
Security forces will almost certainly maintain a heightened presence in Kati and its immediate surroundings in the coming days. In the capital, heightened security measures, such as additional patrols and checkpoints, are also likely, particularly near government buildings, transport hubs, major road routes, and foreign diplomatic offices.
Context
Further such assaults remain possible amid an uptick of attacks in the vicinity of the capital. The Kati incident follows attacks July 21 in several areas of the country. Officials stated that Katibat Macina militants attacked military positions in Douentza, Koro, Sevare, Bapho, Segou, and Kolokani. In addition, militants likely affiliated with Al-Qaeda and Islamic State-linked groups attacked a security post in Zantiguila, located approximately 60 km (37 miles) east of Bamako, overnight July 14-15.
Advice
Minimize nonessential movements in Bamako. Reconfirm the status of transportation and road routes before departure. Conduct travel during daylight hours with a security escort and only following a review of the route. Heed all official directives. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
