Mali: Military camp attacked in Tessalit January 9

Event

According to a UN official, at least 18 peacekeepers and two civilians were wounded in a mortar attack targeting a military camp in Tessalit (Kidal region) on Thursday, January 9. According to reports, fifteen mortar shots landed in and around the camp where UN, Malian, and French forces are stationed. No groups have yet claimed responsibility for the attack.

Similar attacks are possible in northern Mali over 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, and a French-led intervention launched in 2013.

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.