Mali: Militant attack leaves at least 15 soldiers dead November 1

Event

Suspected militants attacked an army position in northern Mali on Friday, November 1, killing at least 15 soldiers and wounding an unspecified number of others. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but Al-Qa'ida-linked jihadists are reportedly suspected. The assault comes roughly one month after a series of coordinated attacks on two army bases in central Mali killed 38 soldiers on September 30.

Further such attacks are possible in the near term.

Context

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.