Soldiers suspected in Mali’s recent militant attacks as violence spreads

Last week’s surprise attacks on multiple Malian military bases revealed cracks in the country’s security. Five soldiers—three still serving, one retired, and one recently dismissed—are now under investigation for possibly helping militants tied to al Qaeda and Tuareg separatists. One of the accused, the fired soldier, was killed during clashes near Kati, just outside Bamako, the nation’s capital. The government hasn’t shared how many suspects exist or how many have been arrested so far. But officials confirm investigations are moving fast. The attacks, which started on April 25, showed how different armed groups can unite briefly to target the Malian military. This military itself came to power after two coups in 2020 and 2021, making its grip on power even shakier.The violence had big consequences. The defense minister died, and Russian-backed forces had to leave Kidal, a key northern city. Now, armed groups control more territory in the desert north. Experts worry this could embolden them to attack other countries nearby—or even further away. The al Qaeda-linked group JNIM wants Mali to reject its current government and follow strict Islamic law instead. They’ve even threatened Bamako, Mali’s largest city with four million people. Security teams say the group set up roadblocks around the city on Friday, tightening their grip. The country’s military leader, Assimi Goita, insists everything is under control. He promised on TV to crush the armed groups responsible. But with checkpoints in Bamako and fighters gaining ground, many are asking: Is the government really in charge, or just holding on?