The Foreign Office has issued an urgent warning advising British citizens against all travel to Mali following a series of coordinated terrorist attacks across the country on 25 April. The attacks, which targeted multiple locations including the capital Bamako, have led to the temporary closure of Modibo Keita International Airport.
Coordinated Assault on Multiple Locations
Gunmen launched simultaneous attacks early on Saturday in several cities, including Kidal, Gao, Kati, and Sevare, as well as near Bamako International Airport. Mali's army confirmed that 'unidentified armed terrorist groups targeted certain locations and barracks in the capital,' adding that soldiers were 'currently engaged in eliminating the attackers.'
Foreign Office Advice for British Nationals
The Foreign Office stated: 'A series of coordinated attacks occurred in multiple locations including Kidal, Gao, Kati, Sevare and in the vicinity of Bamako International Airport on 25th April, which has temporarily closed.' British citizens currently in Mali are advised to stay indoors, avoid crowded places and areas of military or police activity, and follow local authority guidance.
Previously, the Foreign Office had advised leaving only via the airport due to overland routes being 'too dangerous,' citing terrorist attacks along national highways. Terrorist group Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM) has implemented blockades on key routes in southern and western Mali, targeting fuel trucks and enforcing checkpoints.
Heightened Threat of Kidnapping and Violence
The Foreign Office warned of a 'high threat of kidnapping and criminal activity across Mali, including in the capital, Bamako.' It added: 'If you choose to remain in Mali, you do so at your own risk. You should have a personal emergency plan that does not rely on the UK government.'
Background of Insurgency
Mali has been plagued by insurgencies from affiliates of al Qaida and the Islamic State group, as well as a separatist rebellion in the north. An Associated Press journalist in Bamako heard sustained heavy weapons and automatic rifle fire from Modibo Keita International Airport, located about 15km from the city centre, and observed a helicopter patrolling nearby neighbourhoods.
Residents in other cities reported gunfire and explosions early Saturday. In Kidal, gunmen entered the city and took control of some neighbourhoods. The Azawad Liberation Front claimed on Facebook to have seized areas of Kidal and Gao, though this could not be independently verified.
Worsening Security Situation
A resident of Gao described being terrified by explosions that shook doors and windows. In Kati, a town near Bamako housing Mali’s main military base, residents were woken by gunfire. Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have seen a worsening security situation, with record attacks by militants and government forces accused of killing civilians suspected of collaborating with militants.
