An individual impersonating an officer of the Malian Armed Forces was arrested on May 19, 2025, in Yirimadio, on the outskirts of Bamako, following a tip-off from the local population.
The operation, conducted by the National Gendarmerie, led to the seizure of military gear and forged identification documents.
According to a statement from the Malian Armed Forces General Staff (EMGA), the suspect was posing as a captain of the Parachute Commando Regiment (RCP) and was apprehended by the Faladiè Territorial Brigade of the Gendarmerie.
He was wearing a worn-out military uniform at the time of his arrest near the Yirimadio overpass.
A subsequent search of his residence uncovered a significant quantity of military equipment, compromising documents, and counterfeit ID cards.
Colonel Daouda Keïta, Commander of the Bamako Territorial Gendarmerie Group, praised the public for their cooperation and emphasized the importance of civilian support in national security efforts. “Such collaboration is vital in our mission to secure the country,” he said, urging citizens to continue reporting suspicious activity to the defense and security forces.
“The military leadership remains fully committed to safeguarding people and property across the national territory,” Colonel Keïta affirmed.
The arrest comes at a time when Mali continues to grapple with persistent insecurity, particularly in regions plagued by armed violence for more than a decade.
AC/lb/as/APA