Event
Mali's army reported that unidentified armed "terrorist" groups launched attacks on military positions in the capital and several towns in the country's interior on Saturday. Fighting was ongoing at the time of the report. Gunfire was heard at Modibo Keïta International Airport in Bamako, near an air base used by the air force. Residents and journalists reported sustained heavy weapons and automatic rifle fire, as well as helicopters patrolling nearby neighbourhoods. Attacks were also reported in Kati, Gao, and Sevare.
2 published stories · security · source reliability 50%
The Malian army describes the perpetrators as "terrorist" groups, citing sustained heavy weapons fire and helicopter activity near key installations while combat remains active.
Background
On Saturday, 25 April 2026, the Malian army reported coordinated attacks by unidentified armed groups, described as "terrorist" groups, against military positions across the country. The violence centred on the capital, Bamako, specifically near Modibo Keïta International Airport and an adjacent air base used by the Malian air force. Residents and journalists confirmed sustained heavy weapons and automatic rifle fire, alongside the presence of patrolling helicopters. Additional assaults were reported in the interior towns of Kati, Gao, and Sevare. These incidents highlight ongoing security challenges under the indefinite rule of military leader General Assimi Goïta.
On Saturday, 25 April 2026, the Malian army reported coordinated attacks by unidentified armed groups, described as "terrorist" groups, against military positions across the country. The violence centred on the capital, Bamako, specifically near Modibo Keïta International Airport
Fact cards
Key entities: Mali, Mali's army, Modibo Keïta International Airport, Bamako, General Assimi Goita, Kati, Gao, Sevare.
Which locations were targeted in the attacks? Military positions in Bamako (including near Modibo Keïta International Airport), Kati, Gao, and Sevare. Who is responsible for the attacks? The Malian army describes the perpetrators as unidentified armed "terrorist" groups. Is the f
France 24 International | Primary source for the live report on the attacks and witness accounts. | Associated Press (AP) | Secondary source cited within the text regarding gunfire near the airport.
Saturday, 25 April 2026: Unidentified armed groups launch attacks on military positions in Bamako, Kati, Gao, and Sevare. Saturday, 25 April 2026: Gunfire and heavy weapons fire reported near Modibo Keïta International Airport; helicopters observed patrolling nearby neighbourhood
Timeline
Unidentified armed groups launch attacks on military positions in Bamako, Kati, Gao, and Sevare.
Gunfire and heavy weapons fire reported near Modibo Keïta International Airport; helicopters observed patrolling nearby neighbourhoods.
Malian army confirms fighting is ongoing and reports the attacks as part of a broader assault on military infrastructure.
FAQ
Military positions in Bamako (including near Modibo Keïta International Airport), Kati, Gao, and Sevare.
The Malian army describes the perpetrators as unidentified armed "terrorist" groups.
Yes, the army reported that combat was ongoing at the time of the report.
He is the military ruler of Mali, and the attacks on Kati (his residence) underscore security challenges under his indefinite rule.
Military positions in Bamako (Modibo Keïta International Airport), Kati, Gao, and Sevare.
The Malian army states the groups are affiliated with jihadist organisations.
The junta, led by General Assimi Goïta, dissolved political parties and extended its own rule indefinitely in July 2025.
The Wagner Group ended its mission in June 2025, replaced by the Africa Corps under the direct control of the Russian defence ministry.