TWIN TERRORIST ATTACKS ROCK MALI, MILITARY BASES OVERRUN

By: Zagazola Makama

In Aug 7, 2024, terrorist groups launched simultaneous assaults on two military bases in Mali, leaving a trail of destruction and death in their wake.

The first attack targeted the military barracks in Kouakourou, in the circle of Djenné/Mopti. After intense combat lasting several hours, the Malian Armed Forces (FSD) were forced to retreat, ceding control of the camp to the terrorists.

The attack resulted in the loss of approximately ten soldiers, with several more injured. The camp was subsequently vandalized and set ablaze, with significant quantities of weapons and ammunition seized by the attackers.

In a separate incident on the same day, terrorists attacked the military base in Gomokoura, situated between Nampala and Niono, also in the Mopti region. Following intense gunfire exchanges, the camp fell under the control of the assailants. The base was looted and completely destroyed, with the human toll currently unknown.

The attacks have been claimed by the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), which has intensified its campaign of violence in recent weeks, carrying out ten attacks since the beginning of the month.