Bamako
Authorities in Mali have launched an investigation into soldiers suspected of involvement in a series of coordinated attacks on military bases carried out by armed groups linked to al Qaeda and separatist rebels.
A judicial official said the probe is focusing on possible internal support for the attacks that took place across multiple locations last week. The list of suspects includes active-duty soldiers, a retired soldier, and a dismissed soldier who was later killed near a major army base in Kati, close to the capital Bamako.
The military prosecutor’s office confirmed that arrests have already begun, while additional suspects and collaborators are being tracked. However, officials have not disclosed the total number of people detained so far.
The attacks, which began on April 25, targeted several army positions and created widespread instability across northern Mali. The violence resulted in the killing of the defence minister and forced Russian-backed forces to withdraw from the northern town of Kidal.
Security officials said the situation has further escalated tensions in the desert region, where militant groups are expanding their influence and increasing cross-border threats. Analysts warn that the armed groups are becoming more coordinated and bold in their operations.
One of the main groups involved, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), has urged civilians to rise against the government and has threatened to surround Bamako.
Military authorities, led by Assimi Goïta, have vowed strong action against insurgents and promised to restore control. Officials say security operations will continue as investigations expand into possible internal support for the attacks.