At Least 50 Soldiers Killed in Jihadist Attack on Malian Army Base
The attack on the Dioura military camp also killed five Russian Africa Corps paramilitaries, while several dozen Malian soldiers were reportedly taken prisoner.
- At least 50 soldiers killed
- Five Russian paramilitaries also killed
- Several dozen soldiers reportedly captured
At least 50 Malian soldiers and five Russian Africa Corps paramilitaries have been killed in a jihadist attack on a military base in central Mali.
The attack occurred last Thursday at the Dioura military camp in the Mopti region and is among the deadliest attacks on the Malian army since the country’s security crisis began more than a decade ago.
Security and local sources told AFP that several dozen Malian soldiers were also taken prisoner during the assault.
While an officer at the scene confirmed more than 50 personnel were killed, other sources gave higher figures, with estimates ranging from 60 to 80 soldiers.
The Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) claimed responsibility for the attack and said it had taken control of the military camp.
According to a local source, the jihadists attacked the base and returned the following day, while no reinforcements were sent to the camp.
The Malian army later launched air and ground operations against the attackers. The military said several suspected terrorists were neutralised during the operations.
The attack comes amid a renewed wave of violence by jihadist and separatist groups seeking to weaken Mali’s military rulers.
Mali has faced a prolonged security crisis since 2012, with attacks involving jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State, criminal gangs and armed separatists.
The military junta, which took power following coups in 2020 and 2021, has strengthened its military and political ties with Russia after distancing itself from France.
