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Rebels Ambush Russian-Malian Convoy but Claim Control of Anefis
A convoy of over 200 Russian fighters and more than 100 Malian soldiers was attacked Thursday in northern Mali. Tuareg rebels claimed responsibility for the ambush near Tabankort while the force moved toward Anefis.
Jul 10, 2:32 AM·1m read2 sources
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A convoy carrying over 200 Russian fighters from the Africa Corps and more than 100 Malian soldiers was ambushed Thursday in northern Mali while heading toward the town of Anefis. The convoy consisted of dozens of vehicles traveling with air cover. Tuareg rebel sources said fighters from the Azawad Liberation Front engaged the reinforcement force near Tabankort.
"Our troops engaged in combat this Thursday near Tabankort (northern Mali) against the reinforcement force, which is composed 90% of Russian mercenaries and Malian soldiers," said Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane, spokesperson for the FLA rebel group. The FLA claimed control of Anefis, a location viewed as key to holding Kidal.
Russian paramilitaries and Malian soldiers retained control of a military camp in the town, according to security sources.
AllAfrica reported that fighting has intensified since an April operation by JNIM and the FLA that killed Mali's then-defense minister and struck Bamako's airport. Coordinated attacks by the same groups on Saturday struck another military convoy and additional positions. Niger provided air support during the recent fighting.
The convoy was part of efforts to reinforce positions in the north amid ongoing insurgencies that began in 2012.
