Malian delegation visits Bandiagara after deadly attack
In Mali, a high-level government delegation, led by General Ismaël Wagué, the Minister of State for Reconciliation, Peace, and National Cohesion, traveled to Bandiagara in the central region on Monday, May 11, 2026. This visit followed a devastating terrorist assault that occurred on May 6, targeting the villages of Kori-Kori and Gomossogou within the Bankass circle.
The delegation formally extended the State’s condolences during a solemn ceremony held at the regional governorate. During this occasion, substantial assistance was provided to support the victims, including 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial aid package totaling 20 million FCFA.
The Minister stated that the attack was attributed to fighters from the JNIM group. However, official casualty figures from authorities have yet to be released. Meanwhile, the Dana Ambassagou dozos reported a grim toll of over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and extensive material destruction.
Youssouf Toloba, the leader of this militia, asserted that these villages were specifically targeted because they refused to enter into “peace agreements” with the armed terrorist factions. Concurrently, Noël Tessougué, a sub-chief among the dozos, issued a warning that the militia would no longer tolerate any villages that forge agreements with JNIM combatants.
During his address, Minister Ismaël Wagué reaffirmed the commitment of the transitional authorities to eradicate violence against civilians across the entire national territory.
He concluded his remarks by urging for unity, solidarity, and national cohesion as essential elements to effectively confront the prevailing security challenges.
The delegation formally extended the State’s condolences during a solemn ceremony held at the regional governorate. During this occasion, substantial assistance was provided to support the victims, including 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial aid package totaling 20 million FCFA.
The Minister stated that the attack was attributed to fighters from the JNIM group. However, official casualty figures from authorities have yet to be released. Meanwhile, the Dana Ambassagou dozos reported a grim toll of over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and extensive material destruction.
Youssouf Toloba, the leader of this militia, asserted that these villages were specifically targeted because they refused to enter into “peace agreements” with the armed terrorist factions. Concurrently, Noël Tessougué, a sub-chief among the dozos, issued a warning that the militia would no longer tolerate any villages that forge agreements with JNIM combatants.
During his address, Minister Ismaël Wagué reaffirmed the commitment of the transitional authorities to eradicate violence against civilians across the entire national territory.
He concluded his remarks by urging for unity, solidarity, and national cohesion as essential elements to effectively confront the prevailing security challenges.