The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have secured the release of two police officers, Abdourahamane Dembele and Boubacar Dabo, who were kidnapped on August 6 by the terrorist group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM).
The two officers, who were taken hostage on the Timbuktu-Douentza road, were freed on September 8 and have been reunited with their families.
The Malian authorities confirmed the release and granted the former hostages an audience with General Assimi Goita, the head of the transitional government. While the specific details of the release were not disclosed, Minister of Security and Civil Protection General Daoud Aly Mohammedine credited the success to effective collaboration between the Malian military and intelligence services. He praised the professionalism of the teams involved and restated the government’s commitment to fighting terrorist groups and protecting the country.
A care plan, which included medical and psychological support, was immediately provided to the two men.
The day before the announcement, Colonel-Major Souleymane Dembele, the army’s spokesperson, provided an update on the national security situation. He stated that the FAMa and their allies in the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) remain in control, despite new tactics being used by JNIM, such as the use of drones, homemade explosives, and attacks on civilians.
Colonel-Major Dembele also addressed recent allegations of a “blockade” on key roads, which he described as brief enemy incursions meant to spread fear and false information. He also referenced a recently foiled coup attempt, though he did not provide details on the alleged conspirators.
The military official concluded by urging the Malian population to stay united and support the armed forces in their mission to maintain the country’s stability.
MD/ac/Sf/fss/abj/APA