Mali: Gunmen ambush FAMa patrol in Ségou region on September 9

Event

Malian officials have confirmed that a Malian armed forces (FAMa) patrol was ambushed by unidentified gunmen in the Ségou region on Wednesday, September 9. The attack, which took place in the Diabaly area of the region, resulted in the deaths of three soldiers and the destruction of two vehicles. A further five soldiers remain missing. Reinforcements were deployed to the area and are carrying out a search for the missing soldiers.

A heightened security presence is to be expected in the near term. Further attacks are likely throughout Mali in the near term.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4500 troops stationed throughout the Sahel.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. 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, used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.