Mali: Islamic State claims responsibility for November 1-2 attacks in Indelimane /update 2

Event

The Islamic State (IS) group claimed responsibility for two separate attacks conducted on Friday, November 1, and Saturday, November 2, that left at least 55 people dead. In a statement, the group claimed to have killed 70 Malian soldiers in an assault on an army base in Indelimane (Menaka region) on Friday; government officials, however, said that 53 soldiers and one civilian were killed in the attack. In a separate statement, IS claimed responsibility for Saturday's improvised explosive device (IED) attack on a French military convoy in Indelimane that killed one solider.

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.