JNIM claims killing of 150 Malian soldiers, capture of 93 others in Dioura attack
By: Zagazola Makama
The Al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has claimed responsibility for the Sept. 10 attack on a Malian military position in Dioura, Mopti Region, alleging that 150 soldiers were killed and 93 others captured.
The attack on the Forces Armées Maliennes (FAMa) position was confirmed by the Malian military, which said at the time that its forces had launched a response operation. The army later reported that several dozen terrorists had been neutralised during the counter-operation, alongside the destruction of several vehicles and motorcycles.
In its latest claim, JNIM said its fighters destroyed 15 military vehicles and more than 100 motorcycles during the assault. The group also claimed to have seized six military vehicles and 10 motorcycles, as well as RPG launchers, mortars, recoilless guns, rifles and large quantities of ammunition.
The figures released by JNIM have not been independently verified. Earlier reports also indicated that the group claimed to have taken control of the military camp before withdrawing, while Malian authorities acknowledged the attack and said a military response was underway.
The claimed casualties, if confirmed, would represent a major loss for the Malian military. However, available independent reporting has cited lower casualty estimates, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the final toll from the battle.
JNIM’s claim comes amid an intensification of attacks against Malian security positions, particularly across the country’s central regions, where the group has continued to challenge government forces and disrupt military movements.
