The Malian army has announced that it has regained control of the situation in all areas targeted by attacks by the Front de libération de l’Azawad in the north and the ‘Soutien de l’islam et des musulmans’ group linked to Al-Qaïda in the centre and south of the country.

Fighting resumed on Sunday at Anifif, about 110 kilometers southwest of Kidal city, after the arrival of human and material reinforcements for the Front de libération de l’Azawad.

The Malian army stated that ‘face to this pressure, the units of the Armed Forces of Mali continued the fight with determination and tenacity and carried out combat operations throughout the day with courage and discipline.’

The military reaffirmed its ‘full confidence in the ability of the Armed Forces of Mali to defend national unity and territorial integrity, protect the population, and defeat enemy forces.’

Mohamed Mouloud Ramadan, a spokesperson for the Front de libération de l’Azawad, announced earlier that his group controlled the situation at Anfif after resuming fighting.

He also denied the death of the group’s leader, Mbarek Ag Akli, and said he continued to lead military operations in northern Mali.