Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a series of coordinated assaults early Saturday, gunmen targeted various sites across Mali, including the capital, Bamako. Reports of intense gunfire and explosions emerged as security forces took action.

The Malian army verified that unidentified armed groups struck critical areas, such as military barracks and key infrastructures, in Bamako. A significant incident occurred near Modibo Keita International Airport, where residents and reporters noted ongoing gunfire and helicopter activity, given the airport's proximity to a military air base.

Security officials reported a rapid deployment of army troops who engaged in combat against the attackers.

Additional reports indicated unrest in other regions. In Kati, located close to Bamako and housing Mali's primary military base, local residents described hearing significant gunfire and blasts early in the day.

In the northeastern cities of Kidal and Gao, witnesses recounted firefights, gunfire, and explosions. A former mayor from Kidal stated that armed groups infiltrated sections of the city, resulting in combat with government forces. In Gao, the force of explosions was reported to rattle buildings and incite panic among the population.

A spokesperson from the Azawad Liberation Front claimed on social media that their forces had taken over various regions in Kidal and Gao. However, this assertion remains unverified.

The U.S. Embassy in Bamako issued a security notice, acknowledging the gunfire and explosions near Kati and the airport area. Americans were urged to stay indoors and limit movement until further updates.

Mali is contending with enduring violence linked to armed groups associated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State. The nation also faces a separatist movement in the north. Despite regional and international initiatives, security conditions have steadily declined in Mali and neighboring nations, Burkina Faso and Niger.

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