Mali crisis: government delegation visits Bandiagara after deadly attack

In a show of solidarity with affected communities, a high-level government delegation led by Mali’s Minister of State for Reconciliation, Peace and National Cohesion, General Ismaël Wagué, traveled to Bandiagara in the country’s central region earlier this week. The visit comes in response to a brutal terrorist assault on the villages of Kori-Kori and Gomossogou in Bankass Circle, which unfolded on May 6.

During a formal ceremony at the regional governor’s office, the delegation conveyed the State’s heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families. In a gesture of support, essential supplies including 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial aid package worth 20 million West African CFA francs were distributed to those most in need.

The tragedy has been widely attributed to fighters from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM). While authorities have yet to release an official death toll, local traditional hunters known as dozos, led by Youssouf Toloba of Dana Ambassagou, reported over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and severe property damage.

Youssouf Toloba, Commander of the Dana Ambassagou militia, stated that the villages were deliberately targeted after refusing to sign peace agreements with armed extremist groups. Echoing this stance, Noël Tessougué, Deputy Chief of the dozos, warned that no peace would be granted to villages that enter into such arrangements with JNIM militants.

Addressing the gathering, General Ismaël Wagué reaffirmed the transitional government’s unwavering commitment to ending violence against civilians across Mali. His speech concluded with a resolute call for unity, solidarity, and national cohesion to confront the ongoing security threats.