Mali has once again been the scene of deadly terrorist attacks. This time, it was the Support Group for Islam and Muslims (Jnim), affiliated with al-Qaeda, which claimed responsibility for the attacks against two military camps of the Malian Armed Forces (Fama) in the Timbuktu region. .
Jnim describes these attacks as “large-scale”. The Niafunké military camp was first targeted by a kamikaze attack, followed by the takeover of the camp by jihadists. The loss of life is estimated at several dozen Malian soldiers killed, with two taken prisoner.
In addition to these tragic human losses, the attackers managed to seize five vehicles, as well as heavy weapons and military equipment. The jihadist group even broadcast images of this loot, in a show of force against the Malian authorities.
Simultaneously, Jnim also claimed responsibility for firing mortar shells against the Goundam military camp, still in the Timbuktu region. The consequences of these shots are not yet known.
The Malian army, for its part, claimed to have finally repelled the attackers, after unsuccessfully trying to regain control of the Niafunké and Goundam camps. However, she did not wish to provide details or an assessment of the outcome of the attacks.
These new terrorist attacks once again highlight the volatility of the security situation in Mali and the difficulty for the Malian authorities in confronting the jihadist threat. Despite the efforts made to combat terrorist groups, these attacks demonstrate that the threat persists and that vigilance must remain essential.
It is essential that the Malian authorities continue to strengthen their cooperation with neighboring countries and the international community to better coordinate actions to combat terrorism. The security of the Malian armed forces must also be strengthened, providing them with the resources and training necessary to deal with these attacks.
The Malian population, for its part, must not give in to fear and must continue to support the efforts of the army and the authorities to restore security in the country. A mobilization of all actors, including civil society, is necessary to counter the terrorist threat and guarantee a peaceful and prosperous future for Mali.
In conclusion, these Jnim attacks against the Malian army in Niafunké and Goundam once again underline the urgency of strengthening security and coordination measures to face the jihadist threat in Mali. The fight against terrorism can only be won through a global approach and strengthened international cooperation.