Mali’s military said it is engaged in operations against armed groups following coordinated attacks on the capital Bamako and other parts of the country.
Witnesses reported heavy gunfire in several locations, including Kati on the outskirts of Bamako, as well as cities in the north and centre such as Gao, Kidal and Sevare. The army described the attackers as “terrorist groups”, although their identity has not been confirmed.
The situation developed in a country already facing a long-running security crisis involving jihadist factions and separatist movements.
The Malian armed forces said early attacks targeted military positions and barracks. Authorities stated that security forces were deployed to “neutralise” the attackers and restore control.
Residents reported intense clashes near military installations close to Bamako, including areas near the airport. Helicopters were seen patrolling the capital as gunfire continued in some districts.
The army later said the situation was “under control”, although sporadic fighting was still reported in parts of the city.
Tuareg rebel groups claimed they had taken control of Kidal in the north, a claim the military has not confirmed. The situation remains difficult to verify due to ongoing fighting and limited access to affected areas.
Mali has faced instability since 2012, driven by armed groups linked to both Al-Qaeda and Islamic State, alongside separatist movements. The country’s military leadership has remained in power following coups in 2020 and 2021.
The government has shifted its foreign alliances in recent years, distancing itself from Western partners and strengthening ties with Russia as it continues its counterinsurgency operations.
