Mali Defence Minister Sadio Camara has reportedly been killed following a coordinated wave of attacks on military installations across the country.
According to reports, Camara died after a vehicle-borne explosive device detonated outside his residence in Kati, a heavily fortified military town located about 15 kilometres from the capital, Bamako.
The assault took place on Saturday as suspected jihadist fighters linked to al-Qaeda and Tuareg rebel groups launched simultaneous attacks in several parts of the country, including Kati, known as a stronghold of the ruling military junta.
Sources said the explosion destroyed the minister’s residence and also claimed the lives of at least three of his family members.
Camara was one of the most influential figures in Mali’s military-led government, which seized power after coups in 2020 and 2021.
Meanwhile, renewed clashes were also reported in northern Mali, particularly in Kidal, as insecurity continues to worsen across the country.
