More than 100 Malian soldiers were killed in an attack by al-Qaeda-linked militants earlier this month, according to security and diplomatic sources, highlighting growing security challenges facing the country.
The September 10 attack targeted a military camp in Dioura, central Mali, with one security source putting the death toll at 130 and a diplomatic source estimating about 120. The militant group, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), has claimed responsibility.
Mali’s army said it evacuated troops from the camp and launched a military operation lasting more than a week against the attackers, acknowledging that some soldiers were killed without providing a figure.
JNIM has also claimed attacks around Sevare airport, where military aircraft and drones are stationed. The group said it killed 33 pro-government forces in Sevare and nearby Konna, although those claims could not be independently verified.
The latest attacks underline continuing instability in Mali, where Islamist insurgencies remain a major security challenge.
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