Malian Army Intensifies Antiterror Strikes Near Algerian Border Following Algeria Escalation

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have intensified their counter-terror operations near the Algerian border, targeting terrorist groups in the Talhandak area, approximately 82 kilometres northeast of Tessalit in the Kidal region.

The operations, according to DirpaFa were conducted from April 21 to 22, resulting in the destruction of three vehicles, a fuel depot, and the neutralisation of about 15 armed terrorists.

Military intelligence had tracked the movements of several terrorist vehicles throughout the day and night of April 21. Surveillance confirmed hostile activities by three terrorist targets, leading to a series of precise strikes. The first two salvos destroyed two vehicles and killed around ten fighters. A third strike eliminated another vehicle, a fuel depot, and five more terrorists.

The explosions and subsequent fires confirmed that high-value terrorist targets were present at the site. The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces praised the professionalism of the engaged personnel and urged civilians to continue distancing themselves from terrorist elements.

This comes amid rising tensions following the destruction of a Malian military drone in the same region. The Malian government has launched a formal investigation into what it called a serious national security breach.

The drone was reportedly on a surveillance mission tracking Iyad Ag Ghali, a top leader of Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), who is wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. His last known location was near Tinzaouatène, close to the Algerian border.

Malian authorities suspect Algeria deliberately downed the drone to shield Ag Ghali, citing long-standing accusations of collusion between him and Algerian intelligence services.

While Algeria claims the drone violated its airspace, Mali challenges this assertion, pointing out that similar operations have occurred in the region without incident.

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