Mali: Several deadly attacks in central Mali Jan. 25

Event

A vehicle transporting passengers from Burkina Faso hit a landmine near the village of Boni, Mopti region, on Thursday, January 25; 26 people were killed. In a separate incident, militants attacked the Malian military forces in the town of Youwarou, near the city of Mopti, before being repelled; two soldiers and five assailants were killed. Finally, a mortar attack was carried out in Ngomakoura, causing no casualties.

No group has yet claimed responsibility for any of the attacks.

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 stationed throughout the Sahel. Additionally, MINUSMA, the UN peacekeeping mission stationed in Mali, is one of the largest in the world.

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 prevalent 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.