In a devastating dual terrorist attack that shook northern Mali, at least 49 civilians and 15 soldiers lost their lives, according to a government statement. The attacks were claimed by the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (GSIM).
Local media reported that the assailants targeted the passengers of the “Tombouctou” boat and a military camp of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) in the Gao region on Thursday,
The tragic incident unfolded as the “Tombouctou” boat was traveling on the River Niger, shuttling passengers from Gao to Mopti. The GSIM executed a well-coordinated assault, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.
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The government’s statement emphasized the swift response by the Malian Armed Forces, who launched a combined air-land operation against the terrorists.
The operation resulted in the neutralization of approximately 50 terrorists. Efforts were also immediately made to evacuate all passengers and secure the affected areas, which remain under thorough sweeping and surveillance.
The gravity of the situation prompted Mali’s interim president, Assimi Goita, to declare a three-day national mourning period.
It’s crucial to note that Mali has been under military rule since 2020, following a coup that toppled the government. Since 2012, the northern regions of Mali have been plagued by an insurgency with ties to Al Qaeda and Islamic State terror groups.
This insurgency has brought about a prolonged and devastating period of instability in the region.
Mali has witnessed a recurring cycle of insurgencies, jihadist incursions, and inter-community violence, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people.
By xamse
September 8, 2023
