Mali’s armed forces reported on Saturday that several of its military positions across the country, including in the capital city of Bamako, were targeted in attacks by unidentified armed groups. In a statement issued on April 25, 2026, the military described the assailants as “terrorist” groups and confirmed that security operations were underway in response.
Reports from witnesses in Bamako detailed sounds of gunfire near the country’s main international airport. Additionally, journalists on the ground reported hearing two explosions followed by sustained gunfire near the Kati military base, the nation’s largest, located on the outskirts of the capital.
The formal announcement from the Malian army stated that “unidentified armed terrorist groups” had launched the attacks. The statement confirmed that military personnel were engaged in active combat but did not immediately provide information on casualties, the extent of the damage, or the specific number of locations targeted.
The incidents were not confined to the capital region. The army’s statement indicated that military positions in the country’s interior were also attacked, suggesting a widespread operation. The events occurred in a nation that has been governed by a military administration.
As of Saturday evening, official government sources had not released figures on potential casualties or damage to infrastructure resulting from the attacks. The identity and objectives of the armed groups involved in the operation have not been confirmed by independent sources. Government officials have not yet released a comprehensive assessment of the situation.
