More Than 100 Soldiers Reportedly Killed in Deadly Attack on Mali Army Base

At least 100 Malian soldiers were killed in a militant assault on a military base in central Mali last week, according to multiple sources, making it one of the deadliest attacks on the country’s armed forces since the conflict began nearly 15 years ago.

The attack targeted the Dioura military camp on September 10, a strategically important army base located in the central Mopti region. Earlier casualty estimates had suggested that between 50 and 80 soldiers were killed, but new reports indicate the death toll may be significantly higher.

A security source in Mopti said the assault resulted in the deaths of more than 100 soldiers, including two officers. The source also claimed many of the troops were on their first operational deployment and lacked sufficient air support during the attack.

According to information cited by military sources, approximately 100 soldiers were killed, around 30 were wounded, and dozens were taken prisoner during the assault. Local officials also reported that more than 80 soldiers may have been captured by the attackers.

The attack reportedly overwhelmed the military installation, with officials stating that the camp was subsequently abandoned. Sources said weapons and military equipment at the base were also seized during the assault.

Previous reports indicated that several members of Russia’s Africa Corps, which has provided military support in Mali, were also among those killed during the fighting.

Eight days after the attack, local sources said the Dioura base remained deserted, highlighting the scale of the setback for Mali’s security forces.

Mali has faced persistent security challenges for more than a decade, with armed militant groups operating across large parts of the country despite ongoing military operations and international support efforts. Attacks on military bases and security installations remain a major concern for authorities as they seek to stabilize the region.

The latest assault underscores the continuing volatility of central Mali and the significant challenges facing the country’s armed forces in combating insurgent violence.