Mali: Attack leaves at least six people dead in Zantiguila, Koulikoro Region, overnight July 14-15

Event

Unidentified gunmen attacked a security post in Zantiguila, Koulikoro Region, located approximately 60 km (37 miles) east of Bamako, overnight July 14-15. The attack left at least six people dead and two others injured. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack; however, the Al-Qaeda-linked group known as Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) has carried out several other attacks around Bamako and may have carried out the assault.

Authorities will likely maintain an elevated security posture in the area over the coming days and weeks. Officials could implement restrictive movement measures. Further similar attacks remain possible in the near term.

Context

JNIM, comprised of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and its allies, operates in Mali. Its constituent 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 assassinations, homemade bombs, complex ambushes, rocket and mortar fire, suicide attacks, bombings, car bombs, land mines, kidnappings, and armed assaults.

Advice

Exercise 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.