Major terror attack in Mali; defence minister reported dead
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Bamako: Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara has reportedly been killed in a major coordinated terrorist attack targeting a key military installation near the capital, marking a serious escalation in the country’s ongoing security crisis.
The attack took place at a military base in Kati, close to Bamako, where Camara’s residence was located. The attack has been attributed to a joint operation by the Al-Qaeda-linked group Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and the Tuareg rebel group FLA. While French media outlet RFI and the minister’s relatives have confirmed his death, the Malian government has yet to issue an official statement.
Diplomatic sources describe the incident as one of the most significant coordinated attacks Mali has faced in recent times. Alongside the Kati base, simultaneous strikes were reported at multiple strategic locations, including Bamako airport, Mopti, Sevare and Gao, indicating a high level of planning and execution.
The FLA has also claimed control of the northern city of Kidal, a long-standing rebel stronghold. Reports suggest that Russian personnel present in the area were allowed to withdraw before the takeover.
Camara was a central figure in Mali’s military leadership and a key architect of its shift toward closer ties with Russia following the 2020–21 coups. His role in strengthening military cooperation with Russian forces, including the Africa Corps, had been critical to the junta’s security strategy. Russian state media reported that members of the force were injured while attempting to repel the attack.
The incident is a major setback for the military government led by Assimi Goita, which came to power promising improved security. The country has faced repeated attacks, including a deadly assault in September that killed dozens and disrupted fuel supplies to the capital, deepening instability.
The United Nations has condemned the attack and called for stronger international cooperation to counter terrorism in the Sahel region, as Malian forces continue operations against militant groups across affected areas.
