Mali: UN strongly condemns attack in Mopti region

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Mali have strongly condemned the attack that took place today in the town of Sevaré, in the Mopti region.

According to a news release issued by the mission, known as MINUSMA, unidentified armed men launched an attack on a Malian military site in Sevaré early this morning.

The attackers, who were pushed back by the Malian Armed Forces, then took refuge in a hotel in the town, with the confrontation between the attackers and the Malian Forces continuing throughout the morning, added the mission, which condemned the attack.

At least one UN contractor was killed in the incident, while a number of soldiers from the Malian Armed Forces have also reportedly been killed and wounded.

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned today's attack in a statement issued by his spokesperson.

“This attack will not lessen the determination of the United Nations to accompany the Malian people in their efforts to implement the peace agreement. The Secretary-General calls upon the people of Mali and the parties to the agreement to remain united in their pursuit of a just and sustainable peace.”

At the request of the Malian authorities, MINUSMA has taken measures to ensure the transport of a Malian rapid intervention team from the capital, Bamako, to Sevaré as reinforcements for the national armed and security forces who are on location.

The mission has also reinforced security at the Sevaré-Mopti airport and deployed a medical team that is already stationed at the airport to provide any necessary assistance.

Established in 2013, MINUSMA carries out a number of tasks, including ensuring security, stabilization and protection of civilians; supporting national political dialogue and reconciliation; and assisting the reestablishment of State authority in the country.