A high-level Malian government delegation, led by General Ismaël Wagué, the Minister of State for Reconciliation, Peace, and National Cohesion, visited Bandiagara in central Mali on Monday, May 11, 2026. This crucial visit came in the wake of a brutal terrorist assault that occurred on May 6, targeting the communities of Kori-Kori and Gomossogou within the Bankass circle.
During a solemn ceremony held at the regional governorate, the delegation formally extended the State’s condolences to the affected populace. To provide immediate relief, substantial aid was distributed, comprising 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial contribution of 20 million FCFA, aimed at assisting the victims of the violence.
Minister Wagué indicated that the attack was attributed to fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) group. Despite this attribution, official casualty figures have not yet been released by government authorities. However, the Dana Ambassagou dozo militia reported a grim toll of over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and extensive material destruction.
Youssouf Toloba, who leads the militia, asserted that these villages became targets because they had rejected attempts to force “peace agreements” with the armed terrorist groups. Furthermore, Noël Tessougué, a sub-chief within the dozo forces, issued a stern warning, stating that his militia would no longer tolerate villages that enter into agreements with JNIM combatants.
In his address, Minister Ismaël Wagué reiterated the transitional authorities’ unwavering commitment to eradicating violence against civilians across the entire national territory, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced Mali security.
He concluded his remarks with a powerful appeal for national unity, solidarity, and cohesion, emphasizing these as essential pillars to effectively confront the prevailing security challenges impacting Mali and the wider West Africa region.
