Fighting reported in Bamako and other Malian cities as army confronts "terrorist groups
via SeneNews5 min read
On Saturday, April 25, 2026, fighting was reported on the outskirts of Mali's capital, Bamako, and in several other locations across the country. The Malian army announced in a statement that it was engaged in combat with "terrorist groups" that had attacked barracks and other targets. Witnesses reported assaults in various areas. The army stated that "unidentified armed terrorist groups" targeted points and barracks in the capital and interior early that morning. A Bamako resident attempting to reach the airport for a flight was turned back due to a military deployment, describing high tension and armed soldiers who appeared to be in a panic. Access to the airport area was strictly controlled. An AFP journalist observed deserted streets in Bamako and heard intermittent explosions around 9:00 AM local time, particularly near the 101 Senou base, which is close to the airport. Helicopters were also seen circling above the capital near the airport. Intense gunfire was also heard in Kati, a town near Bamako that houses the residence of junta leader General Assimi Goïta, according to witnesses, a security source, and an elected official. Residents of Kati and the airport area posted images on social media showing homes damaged by explosions. Attacks were also reported in Gao, Kidal, and Sévaré. Mali, a Sahelian country led by a junta that came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, has faced over a decade of conflict and jihadist violence from groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
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