The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has strongly condemned a series of terrorist attacks that struck multiple locations in Mali on Saturday, April 25, calling for enhanced regional cooperation to combat rising insecurity in the Sahel.
The attacks reportedly included a suicide truck bombing near the capital, Bamako, which targeted a residence and left several casualties, including Mali’s Defence Minister, Sadio Camara, according to multiple reports. He is said to have died from injuries sustained during the assault, while state television confirmed his death hours later.
The head of Mali’s military junta, Gen Assimi Goita, was reportedly moved to a secure location after his residence was also targeted during the coordinated attacks.
In a statement, ECOWAS described the incidents as “heinous” and extended condolences to the families of the victims while expressing solidarity with the people of Mali.
“These heinous acts demonstrate once again the barbaric nature of the perpetrators who continue to threaten peace, security, and stability in the West African sub-region as a whole,” the statement said.
The regional bloc urged member states, security agencies, and citizens across West Africa to intensify coordinated efforts to confront extremist violence.
“ECOWAS calls on all states, security forces, regional mechanisms and populations of West Africa to unite and mobilise in a coordinated effort to combat this scourge,” it added.
Reports indicate that the attacks, believed to have been carried out by militants linked to al-Qaeda, also affected the town of Kati near Bamako, as well as other regions including Gao, Sevare, and Mopti. At least three members of the defence minister’s family were also reportedly killed in the blast.
Gunfire and explosions were reported across several areas as security forces engaged attackers, some of whom are believed to have fled the scene. Mali’s military said operations were ongoing to restore order.
The latest wave of violence highlights the worsening security situation in the Sahel region, where armed groups continue to carry out coordinated attacks despite ongoing military counterinsurgency efforts.
