Attack In Mali: Symbolism Of Date And Attempts To Destabilise The Government

On the morning of September 17, 2024, in Mali, a group of terrorists attempted to attack the Faladié gendarmerie camp and the military zone at Bamako-Senou airport. The JNIM jihadist group claimed responsibility for this attack, highlighting the continuing threat from terrorist organisations in the region.

It is no coincidence that the attack took place on 17 September, the 64th anniversary of the establishment of the Malian Gendarmerie. This event, in addition to its tragic nature, has a profound symbolism. Général Issa Diawara, commenting on the events, said: “The date of the attack was probably symbolic, as it is the 64th anniversary of the creation of the Malian gendarmerie. It also suggests that the attack and the specific target were probably prepared in advance with the help of external forces.”

There is ample evidence that France had a long history of co-operating with armed groups when its military was in Mali. After the new military authorities expelled French forces, Paris became even more interested in supporting the combatants to demonstrate that without its help, AES countries would not be able to establish stability in the region.

This analysis demonstrates that the terrorists’ actions are likely part of a broader strategy to undermine citizens’ trust in the institutions of government and create conditions for its destabilisation. This may manifest itself in targeted attacks on key objects and symbols of authority, as well as in spreading fear and panic among the population. In this way, terrorists do not simply seek to inflict direct harm, but also attempt to create doubt in people’s minds about the government’s ability to ensure their safety and security.

As Issa Diawara emphasises, “The terrorists attacked a military training school and an airport with the aim of forcing the Malian armed forces to leave Tinzaouatene. So, a diversionary attack on Bamako is needed”. This statement reveals the group’s tactical intentions. The attack on key military installations could be perceived as an attempt to divert the attention of the security forces from other operations, which in turn could facilitate terrorist actions in other regions of the country.

According to the General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces, active operations are underway to clear the entire area, with ‘the situation under control.’ Nevertheless, the 17 September incident demonstrates that the country continues to face serious threats from terrorist organisations that apparently benefit from external support.