Bamako: Twin attacks on Malian army bases in Timbuktu and central Mali have resulted in the deaths of at least 60 soldiers, with several others missing or taken hostage. The Malian army reported repelling a jihadist assault on its Timbuktu camp, while the attack on the Boulkessi base near the Burkina Faso border is still being assessed.

According to France24.com, the attacks on the two army bases left dozens of soldiers dead, along with at least a dozen assailants. Security sources and local officials confirmed that Timbuktu was targeted, with shells fired at the airport and heavy gunfire reported. The army and local sources revealed that soldiers fought to the end but lacked necessary support, leading to a significant number of casualties.

A security source in Bamako reported that 30 soldiers died in the attack on one of Mali’s main military camps. Another source indicated that approximately 60 Malian forces were affected, including those killed, missing, or taken hostage. The army’s statement highlighted
the vigorous response to the Boulkessi attack, emphasizing the soldiers’ bravery and the destruction of terrorist retreats.

Mali, under a junta government since 2012, has faced ongoing attacks from groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, as well as separatist movements and criminal gangs. The army’s general staff stated that it successfully thwarted an infiltration attempt by terrorist fighters in Timbuktu.

Later reports indicated that the camp operations were concluded and the attackers dispersed throughout the city. A local official noted that terrorists arrived in Timbuktu with a vehicle laden with explosives, which detonated near the military camp. Consequently, UN staff were advised to seek shelter.

The city of Timbuktu, historically known as the “city of 333 saints,” has experienced significant turmoil. It suffered major destruction at the hands of jihadists in 2012, who targeted the city’s shrines. The city was later liberated with the assistance of French forces under Operation Serval in 2
013.

Since the military coups in 2020 and 2021, Mali’s government has distanced itself from France, aligning more closely with Russia. Jihadist groups, along with the Malian army and Russian paramilitary group Wagner, have frequently been accused of civilian abuses.