28 Oct 2018 | 03:11 AM UTC
Mali: UN peacekeepers attacked in Tombouctou and Mopti Oct. 27
At least two UN peacekeepers killed in attacks in Tombouctou and Mopti October 27
Event
On Saturday, October 27, jihadist militants launched two attacks on United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) forces in the regions of Tombouctou and Mopti on Saturday, October 27. On Saturday morning (local time), militants launched a complex attack on a MINUSMA base in Ber (Tombouctou region), killing two peacekeepers and wounding three more. Later on Saturday, a MINUSMA convoy hit an improvised explosive device (IED) in Mopti region, wounding at least two soldiers. Further such attacks are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
Due to the presence of various armed groups, Mali's northern and central regions remain unstable despite the presence of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), one of the largest UN peacekeeping missions in the world. According to a UN report released in September, at least 42 improvised explosive devices (IED) attacks had been carried out in the previous three months; more than a third of these occurred in central Mali.
Advice
The security environment in Mali remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
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.
