The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have launched a large-scale operation in the Kayes region, leading to the destruction of a terrorist base and several arrests.
The military’s actions come just after the release of six Senegalese truck drivers who had been kidnapped in the same area.
According to a statement from the General Staff of the Armed Forces (EMGA), Malian forces used an aerial strike to destroy a terrorist base on Monday, September 9, in the Baoulé forest. The operation reportedly resulted in the neutralization of “several dozen terrorists.” In a related action, a reconnaissance mission in the Lambatara area led to the arrest of four suspects, who were found with “dozens of cell phones.”
These operations follow the recent release of six Senegalese truckers—two drivers and four apprentices—who were kidnapped last Thursday. The Senegalese Truckers’ Union (URS) confirmed their safe return on Saturday.
During a press briefing on Monday, Colonel-Major Souleymane Dembele, the army’s spokesperson, stated that these operations are a response to the changing tactics of the terrorist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM). He explained that JNIM is now using drones, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and direct attacks on civilians to “sow terror and destabilize the national economy.”
Colonel-Major Dembele also addressed what he called “disinformation” about an alleged “blockade” on key trade routes in the region. He stated that enemy incursions were short-lived and were part of a strategy to disrupt cross-border trade.
The URS had previously called this strategy “a serious attack” on workers and a threat to the vital Bamako-Kayes corridor, which is used to transport fuel, food, and other goods between Mali and its neighbors.
Dembélé reassured the public that Malian forces and those of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) “remain in a position of strength.” He concluded his remarks by urging the Malian population to stay united and support the armed forces to preserve the country’s stability.
AC/Sf/fss/abj/APA