Gunfire, Blasts Rock Mali's Bamako And Other Cities, Army Says Unidentified Terrorist Groups Targeted Locations

(MENAFN- Live Mint) Gunmen launched attacks on several locations in Mali's capital, Bamako, and other cities early Saturday in a possible coordinated assault, AP reported, citing residents and authorities.

Mali's army, in a statement, said,“unidentified armed terrorist groups targeted certain locations and barracks in the capital.” It added that soldiers were“currently engaged in eliminating the attackers.”

The West African country has been marred by insurgencies fought by affiliates of al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, as well as a separatist rebellion in the north. An Associated Press journalist in Bamako reported sustained heavy weapons fire and automatic gunfire coming from Modibo Keïta International Airport, located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) from the city center, and observed a helicopter flying over nearby neighborhoods. The airport is adjacent to an air base used by Mali's air force. A resident living near the airport also reported hearing gunfire and seeing three helicopters patrolling overhead.

Separately, residents in other Mali cities also reported gunfire and blasts on Saturday morning, a move that reportedly suggests a possible coordinated attack by armed groups.
This is a developing story. More details awaited.

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