Deadly jihadist attack on Malian military base in San
At least ten soldiers were killed early Sunday in San, central Mali, when jihadists launched a coordinated assault on an army camp, local and security sources confirmed.
The attack, which began around 5:00 AM, was claimed by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), Al-Qaeda’s regional affiliate. A local resident described intense fighting with heavy gunfire and explosions, though the situation later stabilized, they noted.
- Security
Military officials reported a “vigorous response” by government forces, denying the jihadists had seized the facility. “There were losses on our side, but assessments are ongoing. Our troops have retaken control,” a defense spokesperson stated, though no casualty figures were provided.
Jihadist group claims responsibility
In a statement, JNIM asserted it had “fully overrun” the Malian army barracks in San, part of the Ségou region. The claim follows a deadly ambush on a military convoy in northern Mali on July 18, where at least fifty soldiers were killed in an assault involving both JNIM fighters and Tuareg separatists from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). That attack remains one of the deadliest against government forces since conflict erupted in Mali.
Mali has faced escalating insecurity since 2012, driven by insurgencies from Al-Qaeda and Islamic State-affiliated factions, armed community militias, and Tuareg separatist movements. The crisis has deepened economic hardship and displaced millions. Since military coups in 2020 and 2021, the junta has pledged to restore security and preserve national unity.
