Mali’s Army Captures Islamic State Group Leader Ahmad Ditta

The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have captured Ahmad Ag Ditta, a senior leader of the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (EIGS), during an operation in the Ménaka region in eastern Mali. The army described the operation as precise and professional, resulting in the deaths of several EIGS fighters.

Ahmad Ag Ditta is accused of orchestrating attacks against civilians and the Malian army, as well as ordering multiple assaults on FAMa forces. During the operation, military equipment, including improvised explosive devices, was seized. The army also reported that two EIGS fighters surrendered.

The Malian military praised the success of the operation, which comes as part of its intensified campaign against terrorist and separatist leaders.

Earlier this month, on December 2, FAMa conducted a special operation in Tin Zaouatine near the Algerian border, neutralising high-ranking leaders of Tuareg rebel groups. Among those killed were Fahad Ag Almahmoud, former leader of GATIA, and other figures from the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA).

Mali, under the leadership of General Assimi Goïta since a coup in May 2021, continues to battle terrorist groups and rebel forces alongside neighbouring Niger and Burkina Faso.

In response to rising insecurity, the three countries formed the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in July 2023. They withdrew from ECOWAS, an organisation they consider to be exploited by France and the West, citing foreign interference and a lack of support in combating terrorism.

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