NIONO, SÉGOU, MALI – SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 Jihadist group JNIM, linked to al-Qaeda, claims that it attacked a Russian Africa Corps patrol north of the city of Niono. The attack reportedly took place between the areas of Tiemaba and Wewo. The Russian vehicles were allegedly first attacked using drones. JNIM fighters subsequently arrived at the scene and documented the aftermath of the attack before withdrawing from the area.
According to local sources cited by French media, at least four Russian personnel were killed and several others were injured. The wounded were reportedly taken to a medical facility in Niono, with some later evacuated by helicopter.
JNIM stated that it killed or wounded a total of seven Russians and seized their weapons and other equipment. However, these claims could not be independently verified. The Russian Africa Corps and the Malian military have not publicly confirmed the attack in this form.
READ MORE:
https://www.africa-press.net/en/policy/armed-group-says-it-attacked-africa-corps-fighters-in-mali
