Mali: Attack on UN base in Timbuktu kills seven August 14

Event

Gunmen attacked a United Nations (UN) peacekeeping base in Timbuktu on Monday, August 14, killing seven people, including five security guards, a gendarme, and a civilian. A rapid response force was deployed to the scene, and the incident was pronounced over on Monday evening; a Malian army spokesman stated that four assailants had been killed.

In a separate incident on Monday, armed men opened fire on UN peacekeepers and Malian troops in Douentza (Mopti region). A UN spokesperson said a peacekeeper was killed during the clash, however no further details were provided.

No group or individual has claimed responsibility for either of Monday's attacks, and investigations are underway.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable, despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4000 troops who are stationed throughout the Sahel.

The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) is one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world. Militants frequently target the mission, and more than 100 peacekeepers have been killed since 2013.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.

Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevailing in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.​