Clashes Erupt in Mali After Coordinated Attacks on Military Positions

(MENAFN) Mali was shaken by a series of coordinated attacks on Saturday, with clashes continuing between government forces and unidentified armed groups in the capital, Bamako, as well as in other parts of the country, according to reports.

Officials from the Defense Ministry indicated that Defense Minister Sadio Camara was unharmed after his residence in Kati was targeted during the attacks, as stated by reports.

In an official statement, the Malian army said several military installations in Bamako and surrounding areas were struck, triggering exchanges of fire, including near the city’s international airport. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and explosions earlier in the day, though residents in Senou later noted that the situation had temporarily quieted, according to reports.

A police source said the airport remained secured, with patrols deployed in nearby zones.

However, clashes persisted in parts of the capital’s outskirts, including Mamaribougou, where locals described ongoing gunfire and sightings of armed individuals in vehicles wearing uniforms different from those of the national army, as stated by reports.

In northern Mali, the Front de Liberation de l'Azawad (FLA) claimed via social media that it had taken control of several positions in Kidal and Gao. Images circulating online appeared to show the capture of the governor’s residence in Kidal, according to reports.

The US Embassy in Mali advised its citizens to remain indoors following reports of explosions and gunfire near Kati and the Bamako airport, as stated by reports.

Meanwhile, a local resident, Abdoulaye Diarra, said around 10 bodies believed to be attackers had been counted, adding that tensions in the area remained high.

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