A severe defeat of the Malian forces (v2)
(B2) The Malian Armed Forces (FAMA) suffered a substantial defeat in the Mopti region at the end of September beginning of October. One of the most serious attacks of recent years which recalls the worst hours of 2012
Significant losses in the FAMA
A Malian detachment at the Mondoro post and a FAMA company of the G5 Sahel joint force in the Boulkessy camp were attacked on the night of Sunday to Monday September 30, respectively at 1 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. (according to the Malian staff) . Close to Burkina-Faso in the Mopti region. Conclusion: At least 25 dead among the FAMA and at least 60 soldiers are missing. Fifteen jihadists also died. (Update) The balance sheet revised upwards Thursday to 38 dead.
The rebels in control for two days
The attackers took control of the camp for more than two days. It was not until Wednesday that the forces 'regained' most of the control. " The Boulkessy camp was recovered by the Malian army, following heavy fighting says a statement from the FAMA published yesterday Wednesday (October 2). " The enemy was forced to retreat. »
Barkhane's intervention necessary
The Malians only owed their salvation to the intervention of the Barkhane force, on land and in the air. The French first deployed a patrol of Mirage 2000, as well as Tiger helicopters, on the sites of the attacks “ indicates the staff of the armies. The support of the Barkhane force to the Malian armed forces has " extended, again by flights of helicopters and fighters, until the re-establishment of the Malian system ". This requires substantial intervention.
(NGV)
