Authorities in Mali have arrested several individuals suspected of involvement in coordinated attacks carried out by jihadist and rebel groups, as investigations deepen into possible internal complicity within the country’s security apparatus.
The military prosecutor announced the arrests following last week’s joint assaults by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA). According to state television, investigators have already established what they describe as “solid evidence” pointing to the involvement of certain members of the armed forces.
Authorities believe some soldiers, either discharged or facing dismissal, played roles in planning, coordinating, and executing the attacks. Among those named in the investigation are Sergeant Diakaridia Sodio, Warrant Officer Moussa Diané, Chief Warrant Officer Mamadou Keïta, and retired soldier Soïba Diarra, although officials have not clarified which of them are among those detained.
The probe also extends beyond the military. Oumar Mariko, a former lawmaker and opposition figure, is under scrutiny after confirming he met representatives of JNIM in early April. He said the اللقاء was intended to discuss prisoner releases and explore dialogue, but authorities are examining the context of the meeting as part of the broader investigation.
The arrests come amid a deteriorating security situation in Mali, where coordinated attacks by jihadist groups and armed movements have targeted strategic military positions. In a major setback, forces aligned with the ruling military authorities and their Russian partners withdrew from the key northern base of Tessalit, which has since fallen under the control of armed groups.
Officials say investigations are ongoing and further arrests may follow as authorities seek to determine the extent of alleged collusion behind the attacks.
