Mali Military Retreats from Boulkessi Base After Deadly Attacks

Mali Military Retreats from Boulkessi Base After Deadly Attacks

The Malian military has withdrawn from a major base in Boulkessi, central Mali, following a surge in jihadist attacks. This decision comes after the base endured two deadly assaults within a week.

Recent Attacks and Casualties

The initial attack, claimed by the Al-Qaeda affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), resulted in the deaths of at least 30 soldiers. A subsequent assault prompted the soldiers to abandon the base.

"We are worried here in Boulkessi, very worried," a local civil servant told AFP, highlighting the growing concern among the local population.

Strategic Withdrawal?

A security source described the departure as a "strategic" move, intended to counter the escalating threat. However, JNIM claims to have inflicted far heavier casualties than officially reported.

Escalating Violence

Recent weeks have witnessed a resurgence of attacks, including assaults on an army base in Timbuktu and an army post in Mahou. Authorities have responded by implementing curfews in several regions to address the escalating violence from terrorist groups.

Mali has struggled with extremist groups and criminal organizations since 2012.