rki.news | Sources: Xinhua
Mali authorities say coordinated armed attacks struck multiple cities on Saturday, targeting military and civilian locations across the country.
According to sources cited by Xinhua News Agency, Defence Minister Sadio Camara was killed when his residence in Kati, near Bamako, was attacked by armed groups. The sources also reported that his second wife was killed in the incident. The information has not yet been independently verified.
The government said in an earlier statement that simultaneous attacks hit several locations, including Kati, Sevaré, Gao, Kidal and the capital Bamako, leaving at least 16 people wounded. Both civilians and military personnel were among the injured.
Officials said damage to infrastructure was limited, while emergency medical teams were deployed to treat the wounded. Search operations are continuing in multiple regions as security forces respond to the attacks.
The Malian Armed Forces said the coordinated assaults appeared aimed at destabilising national defence structures and spreading panic. Military command confirmed heightened security measures, including curfews, reinforced checkpoints and increased patrols nationwide.
Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as operations continue. The situation remains fluid, and official confirmation regarding senior government casualties is still pending.