Mali: Military convoy ambushed in Segou region July 31

Event

Suspected Islamist militants ambushed and shot at a military convoy transporting electoral materials and documents on the Nampala-Dogofri road in the central Segou region on Tuesday, July 31. At least four soldiers were killed in the attack. Soldiers returned fire, killing at least eight militants. Two other military vehicles and the soldiers traveling inside those vehicles are reportedly missing as of August 1.

Similar attacks were perpetrated during the July 29 presidential elections.

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.