Gunmen Strike Military Police Base, Causing Airport Shutdown

Gunmen Strike Military Police Base, Causing Airport Shutdown

On Tuesday morning, there were significant concerns after unidentified assailants reportedly attacked a military police base in Bamako, the capital of Mali. Gunshots and explosions were heard, leading to the abrupt closure of the city’s airport……..CONTINUE READING

A police source, speaking anonymously to AFP, confirmed the attack, stating, “Armed men attacked at least one military police base in Bamako this morning. The attackers have not yet been identified.” The source noted that the violence began around 5:00 am, with gunfire and explosions observed, and black smoke rising near the airport.

An airport official confirmed the temporary closure of Bamako airport but could not specify the duration of the shutdown. A witness reported being trapped in a nearby mosque during the early morning prayers due to the ongoing violence.

The French high school Liberte announced it would remain closed due to the situation, and United Nations personnel in Mali were advised to restrict their movements until further notice.

Since the coups in 2020 and 2021, Mali has been governed by a military junta. The country faces active armed rebel factions, including separatists and jihadists linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group, though the capital has largely been spared from major incidents. The junta’s shift from European and French support to alliances with Russia and the Wagner mercenary group has marked a significant change in Mali’s international relations.

The military authorities have promised to restore control over the nation, but their efforts, particularly in northern Mali, have faced allegations of civilian abuses by the army and its Russian allies, which they deny.