Officials commented on the matter. This development coincides with junta leader Assimi Goïta’s assurance of control over the situation, despite the ongoing security crisis.
In a video statement released on Tuesday, JNIM spokesperson Bina Diarra declared that all routes into Bamako have been sealed off, with only those already within the capital allowed to leave.
The group warned that any attempt to breach the blockade would face severe consequences, extending the same restrictions to the nearby garrison town of Kati. “.
The recent attacks, which included the assassination of Mali’s Defence Minister, Sadio Camara, and targeted key military sites, have heightened fears of further instability.
The international community has taken notice, with France and the UK advising their citizens to leave Mali, while the U. S. Embassy issued a warning for potential terrorist movements in Bamako.
Mali’s security crisis has deepened since the 2020 military coup led by Goïta, further complicated by the presence of Russian paramilitary forces supporting the Malian military.
The junta’s ability to maintain control is being challenged, especially after the withdrawal of forces from the northern city of Kidal, which fell to Tuareg separatist fighters. Analysts believe that while jihadists and Tuareg separatists have historically clashed, they now appear aligned against a common adversary: the ruling junta and its Russian military partners.
The strategic objective of the alliance between JNIM and the Tuareg — led Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) is seen as reclaiming northern regions long contested between the state and armed groups.
The Kremlin has expressed hope for stability’s return to Mali, which has faced conflict and jihadist violence since 2012.
However, the international community remains concerned over the situation, with calls for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
As the situation in Mali continues to evolve, the junta’s ability to restore stability remains in question, amidst the threats posed by jihadist groups and separatist movements.
The recent blockade by JNIM and the junta’s response underscore the fragility of the situation in the West African country and the challenges facing the military government in its attempt to regain control.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africanews
Source: Dominic Wabwireh
