Article: The convoy of the Malian army and Russian auxiliaries of the Wagner group is heading towards Kidal despite the attacks
On Monday, October 1, a convoy made up of around a hundred vehicles from the Malian army and its Russian auxiliaries from the Wagner group began its journey from Gao towards Kidal. Unfortunately, the convoy was the target of further attacks while traveling between Tabricha and Tabankort. Despite these obstacles, the column continued on its way, determined to reach its destination.
At the same time, the rebels of the Permanent Strategic Framework (CSP) claimed the capture of a new Malian military camp in Taoussa. This is the fifth camp attacked by rebels since the war began three weeks ago. The rebels quickly took control of the camp, collecting equipment and imprisoning soldiers before leaving.
However, these attacks did not deter the Malian army convoy. Despite a turbulent night, during which the Malian Armed Forces fired shells and rockets to dissuade the CSP fighters from approaching, the convoy resumed its journey. It is currently located between Tabricha and Tabankort, approximately 130 kilometers north of Gao, towards Anefis and the Kidal region.
The ultimate goal of this convoy remains unknown, but it is clear that it aims to consolidate the presence of the Malian army in the Kidal region and reassert government control over these territories. In a statement, the Malian army spokesperson described this operation as “a process of irreversible occupation of Malian lands”.
Malian soldiers face a double threat: that of the rebel groups of the CSP and that of the jihadists of the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (Jnim), linked to al-Qaeda. Despite these challenges, the convoy is heading resolutely towards Kidal, demonstrating the determination of the Malian army to restore stability in the region.
However, these recent developments raise concerns about fuel supply difficulties at Bamako airport, which could impact military operations. The reasons for this fuel shortage are not yet clear, but they come at the worst time for the Malian Armed Forces who need resources to carry out their missions.
In conclusion, the convoy of the Malian army and Russian auxiliaries continues to progress despite the attacks, while the CSP rebels retake military camps. The situation remains tense in the Kidal region, but the Malian army is showing its determination to restore stability and reassert government control in these areas. The issue of fuel supply at Bamako airport constitutes an additional challenge for the Malian Armed Forces in their fight against rebel groups and jihadists.