Attackers struck a transport convoy in the Faya classified forest zone along the Bamako–Ségou highway late Saturday. Witnesses reported that armed men forced passengers out of several buses before setting the vehicles ablaze.
multiple casualties reported
Gunfire erupted when drivers hesitated to comply with the attackers’ demands, leaving several wounded and at least seven buses destroyed.
weeks-long siege tightens
The blockade, enforced by groups linked to the JNIM—an Al-Qaïda affiliate—has choked off key routes to Bamako since 30 April, following a surge in coordinated attacks across the country.
economy buckling ahead of Tabaski
Supplies into the capital are drying up, with livestock shipments particularly hard hit ahead of Tabaski. Traders report additional truck burnings in recent weeks, deepening shortages and stoking fears of further price spikes.