Mali: French forces neutralize ISGS militant in Menaka August 26

Event

A spokesman for the French Operation Barkhane in Mali announced on Monday, August 27, that one of the leaders of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) was killed during a raid against one of the group's positions located in Menaka on Sunday, August 26. The operations started with French aircraft conducting airstrikes against suspected militant positions. Ground forces then moved into the area and killed militants they encountered. Military officials said that another member of the jihadist group was killed along with two civilians.

Context

Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite a French-led intervention launched in 2013 that drove many extremists from their strongholds. France maintains approximately 4000 troops stationed throughout the Sahel.

Advice

The security environment in Mali remains complex, particularly in the north and central regions. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to traveling.

Due to the underlying terrorist and kidnapping threats prevalent in the country, all those present in Mali are advised to remain discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.