In the heart of Mali, the government delegation led by the Minister of State for Reconciliation, Peace and National Cohesion, General Ismaël Wagué, made a significant visit to Bandiagara in the central region. The trip, which took place on Monday, May 11, 2026, follows a brutal terrorist attack on Kori-Kori and Gomossogou villages in the Bankass area on May 6.
The delegation arrived to offer official condolences to the victims’ families during a ceremony at the regional governorate. As part of the government’s support initiative, essential supplies including 25 tonnes of millet and 25 tonnes of rice were distributed, along with a financial aid package of 20 million FCFA to assist survivors in their recovery.
According to General Wagué, the attack has been attributed to fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), though authorities have yet to release an official death toll. Meanwhile, the Dozos militia, led by Youssouf Toloba, reported over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and severe property damage. The militia claimed the villages were targeted after residents refused to sign so-called ‘peace agreements’ with armed terrorist groups.
Noël Tessougué, deputy leader of the Dozos, emphasized that the militia would no longer tolerate villages entering into arrangements with JNIM fighters, signaling a hardening stance against such compromises.
During the visit, General Wagué reiterated the transitional government’s commitment to ending violence against civilians across the country. He concluded his address with a strong appeal for national unity, urging citizens to stand together in solidarity to overcome the current security challenges gripping Mali.