Explosion Rocks Bamako as Military Training Camp is Targeted in Mali’s Capital

Explosion Rocks Bamako as Military Training Camp is Targeted in Mali’s Capital

A military training camp in Mali’s capital, Bamako, was attacked early Tuesday morning, according to the army. Colonel Marima Sagara, the deputy director of the army’s communications service, confirmed that the gendarme training school, located on the city’s outskirts, was targeted. While reports indicate explosions and smoke seen from a distance, specific details about the attackers, their numbers, or the current status of the situation remain unclear.

Mali, along with its neighboring countries Burkina Faso and Niger, has been grappling with an insurgency involving armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State over the past decade. In recent years, military coups in these nations have led to the expulsion of French troops and a reliance on Russian mercenaries for security support.

Violence in central and northern Mali has intensified. In July, an ambush by al-Qaida resulted in the deaths of around 50 Russian mercenaries. These mercenaries, who had been working alongside Mali’s army against Tuareg rebels, were caught in jihadi territory during a retreat, leading to the deadly attack south of Tinzaouaten.

The ongoing conflict and security challenges continue to impact the region, with frequent attacks highlighting the volatile situation in Mali and its neighbors.

Source: Africa News