02 Oct 2019 | 05:13 AM UTC
Mali: Death toll rises from attack in Boulkessi October 1 /update 1
Malian officials confirm at least 25 soldiers were killed and another 60 are missing following a militant assault on a base in Boulkessi (Mopti region) on September 30
Event
On Tuesday, October 1, Malian government officials confirmed that 25 soldiers were killed and another 60 are missing following an assault on a Malian armed forces (FAMa) base in Boulkessi (Mopti region) on Monday, September 30. According to the government statement, at least four soldiers were wounded, and the camp was destroyed. The militants also seized heavy weapons and equipment before withdrawing from the area. A joint operation comprised of soldiers from Mali, Burkina Faso, and France has been launched in the region in response to the assault.
Further such attacks are possible in the near term.
Context
Militants also attacked a FAMa camp in Mondoro (Mopti region) on Sunday, September 29. No group has immediately claim responsibility for either attack. The death tolls are among the highest suffered by Malian forces in 2019.
Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world.
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.