Mali Defence Minister Killed in Suicide Truck Bombing at Home
The family of Mali’s defence minister has confirmed his death. Sadio Camara was killed in an apparent suicide truck bombing. The attack happened at his residence near the capital, Bamako.
A Deadly Attack at Home
Multiple news outlets reported the death. The attack was part of a wave of coordinated assaults. Jihadist militants and separatists carried them out across the country.
Junta Leader Moved to Safety
The military junta has not confirmed the death yet. However, further reports say its head, Gen Assimi Goita, was moved to a safe location. His home was also targeted. Russian mercenaries hired by Mali’s military have agreed to withdraw from Kidal. The separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) announced this. The withdrawal follows two days of clashes.
Years of Insurgency
Mali has been plagued by insurgencies for years. Groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group are active. The FLA is also involved.Quoting Camara’s family and French media, news agencies said at least three family members also died. The attack was launched by militants affiliated with al-Qaeda in Kati on Saturday.Fighting was reported in Kati, Gao, Kidal, Sevare, and Mopti. Separatists focused on northern cities. The jihadist group JNIM staged simultaneous attacks across the country.
