Mali Defence Minister Reportedly Killed in Terror Attack Near Bamako; Security Tightened Nationwide

Bamako, April 2026: Mali’s Defence Minister Sadio Camara was reportedly killed in a terrorist attack on his residence in Kati, a garrison town near the capital Bamako, according to local sources. The attack was part of a series of coordinated strikes carried out by armed groups across the West African nation.

Sources said that heavily armed militants launched simultaneous attacks on multiple cities on Saturday, leaving at least 16 people injured. Camara’s residence in Kati was among the targets, and both the minister and his second wife were reportedly killed in the assault. However, as of Sunday, the Malian government had not officially confirmed his death.

In a statement issued on Saturday evening, the government acknowledged that several locations were attacked, including key garrison towns such as Sevare, Gao, Kidal, as well as Bamako. Authorities said that both civilians and military personnel were among the injured, who were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. The government added that material damage from the attacks was limited.

The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces confirmed on Sunday that search and counter-terrorism operations were ongoing in Kati, Kidal, and other affected regions. In a separate statement, the army said the attacks appeared aimed at destabilising the country’s defence system and spreading fear among the population.

In response to the deteriorating security situation, authorities have heightened alert levels nationwide. Curfews have been imposed in sensitive areas, while security patrols have been intensified and checkpoints reinforced to monitor movement and prevent further attacks.

The armed forces reiterated their commitment to safeguarding Mali’s territorial integrity and maintaining national security. They also urged citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities to authorities.

Meanwhile, the Embassy of India in Bamako issued an advisory for Indian nationals residing in Mali, urging them to exercise extreme caution in light of the recent violence. The embassy advised citizens to remain indoors, avoid unnecessary movement, and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities.

The advisory stated that the embassy is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with Malian authorities and will provide further updates as necessary.

The attacks underscore the persistent security challenges facing Mali, where armed groups continue to target military and civilian infrastructure despite ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by the government.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)