Senegal Backs Mali’s Crackdown After Insurgent Raids; Ex-Officers and Politician Under Investigation

Senegal has offered its full support to Mali as authorities there intensify efforts to restore stability following a series of insurgent attacks on military bases.

The Malian armed forces confirmed that airstrikes on Friday killed more than 200 suspected militants. The strikes targeted a large insurgent column that had crossed from a neighboring border area and was believed to be preparing fresh assaults.

In the wake of the attacks, a military prosecutor in Bamako announced an investigation into soldiers—both active duty and former officers—suspected of involvement in the coordinated assault, which was carried out by Al Qaeda’s West Africa affiliates and separatist rebels.

Security across Mali remains extremely tight. According to a statement from the general army staff, patrols are active in all regions, especially in the north and the Gossi region, where forces have neutralized dozens of terrorists and destroyed large quantities of captured munitions. In Kati, south of the capital, a large terrorist column heading toward Bamako was also neutralized.

“The patrols, including airstrikes, are still on, and the country is on big alert,” a military source said. “Soldiers are on standby to bring security back.”

In parallel with military operations, military courts have begun arresting suspicious individuals, including retired and serving military personnel. More controversially, investigators have named a well-known political figure in connection with the July 25 attacks.

Oumar Mariko, a deputy and prominent democracy advocate who has opposed several past governments, has been accused by the authorities of alleged involvement in the attacks. According to the military, Mariko was seen negotiating with militant groups just before the assault to secure the release of Malian soldiers—a move that army officials have labeled a deliberate distraction to aid the insurgents. He also stands accused by the government of playing a role in the operations that took place on July 25.