Rebel groups establish checkpoints near Malis capital and northern town

Mali Rebels Continue Attacks Against Military Government

Reports have emerged that Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Tuareg separatists have established checkpoints around Mali’s capital, Bamako, and seized the town of Tessalit in the north. According to Reuters, JNIM has called on Malians to rise up against the current government, with some media outlets reporting that the group has raised the flag of the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) at the Amachach base in Tessalit.

Videos shared on social media show armed fighters inside the base and driving military vehicles around. Local accounts have reported that elements of the army and Russia’s African Corps withdrew from the area, allowing JNIM to take control. Russia has denied claims that it abandoned its military base in Hombori, stating that helicopters delivered ammunition and personnel to Malian forces.

JNIM has also claimed to have captured the Hombori base and taken over two checkpoints near Bamako. The Russian African Corps has stated that its operations are ongoing, with JNIM and AFL continuing to regroup and conduct reconnaissance of military bases. Al Jazeera reports that four major military camps in northern Mali are now under control of armed groups.

The absence of a response from the Malian military to rebel advances is notable, with some observers commenting on the significance of this development. The situation remains fluid, with official authorities yet to issue a statement on the latest developments.

Source: Al Jazeera