25 Nov 2020 | 08:58 PM UTC
Mali: Suspected militants attack village in Mopti region November 23-24
Suspected militants carry out two attacks in Minimakanda village in Bankass (Mopti region) on November 23-24; further attacks to be expected in the region over the medium term
Event
Suspected militants attacked Minimakanda village in Mopti's Bankass twice between Monday, November 23, and Tuesday, November 24, killing at least four civilians. The exact number of casualties could not be immediately verified, and the identity of the perpetrators of the attacks was not immediately known. Soldiers reportedly deployed to the village on Wednesday, November 25, following reports of the attacks.
Similar militant attacks are possible in the Mopti region 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, a French-led intervention launched in 2013, and regional security efforts. Areas along the border with Burkina Faso have become particularly unstable in recent months, as militant groups increasingly operate across the frontier.
Advice
The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions, and those in the country should heed any directives issued by local authorities. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
