Mali: At least 12 civilians killed in July 15 Injagalane attack

Event

Unidentified armed men suspected of being Islamist militants attacked the locality of Injagalane, located near the border with Niger (Menaka region), on Sunday, July 15. The assailants reportedly opened fire in a market, killing at least 12 people. Further such attacks are possible in the coming weeks.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of MINUSMA, one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world, and a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex. 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.