Rebels Seize Another Military Camp In Mali

Mali’s northern Tuareg rebels said they have seized another military base from the Malian Army, bringing to five the number of conquered and pillaged camps in recent weeks.

Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, a spokesperson for the Coordination of Azawad Movements (CMA) said on Wednesday.

Ramadane told journalists that his fighters had taken control of the Malian army camp in Taoussa after fighting.

Report says there was no immediate statement from the Mali Army.

The CMA is an alliance of rebel groups formed by Mali’s semi-nomadic Tuareg people, who have long complained of government neglect and sought autonomy for the desert region they call Azawad.

The CMA signed a peace deal with the previous government and pro-government militia in 2015. But tensions have resurfaced since the military consolidated power in two coups in 2020 and 2021, teamed up with Russian military contractor Wagner Group, and kicked out French forces and U.N. peacekeepers.

The CMA attack on Taoussa followed those on military bases in Bamba, Lere, Dioura and Bourem in recent weeks, all in northern and central Mali where both sides seek to control territory.

Ramadane also said the CMA had attacked the army near the village of Tarkint on Wednesday.