ECOWAS condemns terror attacks in Bamako, vows support for peace efforts

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a strong condemnation of the terrorist attacks carried out by the JNIM group on a gendarmerie school and Bamako’s international airport, reaffirming its commitment to supporting peace restoration efforts in the region.

On Tuesday, September 17, 2024, two separate attacks targeted the gendarmerie school in Faladié, a suburb of Bamako, and the Sénou International Airport.

These acts of violence, claimed by the al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), resulted in multiple casualties, including several trainee gendarmes.

In a statement, ECOWAS expressed its outrage over the incidents, stating, “These violent acts, which threaten the peace and security of West African populations, are strongly condemned.”

The regional body emphasized the importance of collective action to combat terrorism, which continues to plague the region.

Malian security forces were praised for their swift and coordinated response to the attacks.

The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) confirmed that the assailants had been repelled, and operations were underway to prevent further threats.

Following the attacks, access to Bamako’s Sénou International Airport was temporarily restricted.

However, the Malian authorities lifted the security measures later in the afternoon, assuring the public that the situation was under control.

ECOWAS reiterated its unwavering commitment to peace and stability in West Africa, stressing its firm opposition to all forms of terrorism.

The organization also called on the international community to increase support for counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel region.

This latest assault is part of an ongoing wave of violence that has destabilized Mali, a country that has faced persistent armed conflicts and security threats for several years.

Despite numerous peace initiatives, the nation continues to grapple with insurgent attacks that target both military and civilian infrastructure, underscoring the need for sustained regional cooperation and intervention.