In the wake of a wave of coordinated militant attacks on July 1, Malian authorities have rallied key figures in the Kayes region to reinforce collective resolve and bolster security measures.
The attacks, reportedly carried out by groups affiliated with al-Qaeda, targeted multiple towns and strategic sites including Diboli, Gogui, Nioro, Diéma, and Bafoulabé, leaving civilian casualties and severely disrupting vital trade routes.
On Wednesday, July 9, regional leaders convened in Kayes to assess the aftermath and plan a response. Brigadier General Moussa Soumaré, Governor of Kayes, led the emergency meeting alongside the commander of Zone 4, the president of the Regional Council, and the prefect of the district.
Speaking to a gathering of local residents, traditional authorities, and religious leaders, General Soumaré praised the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) for their rapid response.
He stated that the attackers had been successfully “routed” and that the military had inflicted “considerable losses” on the assailants.
“These terrorists struck at the heart of our region’s infrastructure,” said Soumaré, emphasizing the strategic importance of Kayes as a commercial corridor.
“But thanks to the bravery of our forces, the situation is now under control.”
The governor urged continued cooperation from the public, appealing to religious leaders to offer prayers for peace and the safety of the armed forces.
He also called on Quranic teachers to remain vigilant, cautioning that students must not “find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
A nightly curfew from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. has been implemented as a security precaution. Soumaré warned residents against spreading misinformation, which he said could spark unnecessary panic.
He also addressed the growing use of civilian drones, asking owners to limit their operation and liaise with the military to avoid misunderstandings.
As Kayes attempts to recover from the shock of the attacks, the message from authorities is clear: unity, vigilance, and cooperation are essential in the fight against terrorism.
About The Author
