Mali: Suspected Islamist militants kill 17 in Menaka May 1

Event

Suspected Islamist militants killed at least 17 people in two attacks carried out in the Tindinbawen and Taylalene villages (Menaka region) on Tuesday, May 1. The pro-government Azawad Salvation Movement (MSA) and Gatia coalition accuse members of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) of being behind the attacks that chiefly targeted Tuareg ethnic communities.  The UN mission in Mali (MINUSMA) announced that an investigation will take place. Further related attacks are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

The MSA is fighting Islamist groups - mostly composed of members of the Fulani ethnic group - in the area, who have suffered major losses in the region. The Islamic State’s Saharan affiliate is active in the Menaka region. These groups have proved adept at exploiting local tensions between ethnic groups - such as between the Tuareg and the Fulani - to sow discord. On April 26-27, 43 Tuaregs were killed in related attacks in the Menaka region.

Due to the presence of these and various other 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, in addition to the presence of local military troops.

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.