Gunshots and Explosions Rock Malian Capital Amid Suspected Terrorist Attack on Police Base; Airport Temporarily Closed

Early Tuesday morning, suspected extremists launched an attack on a military police base in Mali’s capital, Bamako. Gunmen attempted to infiltrate the Faladie Gendarme School on the outskirts of the city, prompting a swift military response. According to a statement from the Malian military, the situation is under control, and a sweep operation is currently underway. Citizens have been urged to avoid the area for their safety.

Witnesses reported heavy gunfire and explosions around 5 a.m., with black smoke rising near the Bamako airport. A reporter from the Associated Press also noted hearing two explosions in the distance. In response, the government temporarily shut down Bamako’s airport, with no word on when it will reopen.

The attack has caused disruptions across the city. Worshippers at a nearby mosque reported being trapped during early morning prayers, while the French high school, Liberté, announced its closure due to the ongoing situation. Additionally, staff at the United Nations mission in Mali were advised to limit their movements.

Mali has been governed by a military junta following successive coups in 2020 and 2021. While the country has been plagued by extremist activity from groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, the capital city has largely been spared from attacks until now.

Under junta leader Colonel Assimi Goita, Mali has distanced itself from former colonial power France, instead aligning with Russia and the Wagner mercenary group to combat insurgent groups in the north. While the military offensive continues, there have been numerous allegations of abuses against civilians by Malian forces and their Russian allies, accusations that have been strongly denied.

The Malian government has not provided further details on the ongoing sweep operation or the extent of the damages from the attack, but security remains on high alert throughout Bamako.