Mali Detains 20 Soldiers Over Alleged Plot to Overthrow Junta

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Around 20 soldiers in Mali have been arrested on suspicion of attempting to overthrow the military junta currently in power, according to sources who spoke to AFP on Sunday. The arrests, which have occurred over the past three days, are reportedly connected to an effort to destabilize the nation’s institutions.

A security source in Mali confirmed the arrests, saying, “We’ve carried out the necessary actions following an attempt to disrupt the government.” An additional military source also confirmed the unrest, describing it as a plot to destabilize the current regime.

Among the detained soldiers is General Abass Dembele, a respected former governor of the Mopti region. According to a person close to Dembele, he was arrested early Sunday morning in Kati, located on the outskirts of the capital, Bamako. The reason for his arrest has not been disclosed, and authorities have not yet given a formal explanation.

Mali has faced significant challenges since a coup in 2012, including a surge in militant violence by groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS. Additionally, criminal and sectarian conflicts have intensified, while the country’s economy continues to struggle.