Wagner Forces Seize Bamako Airport in Mali, Symbolic Attack with Casualties

Sep 17, 2024, 04:59 PM

Wagner forces have taken control of Bamako airport in Mali, marking a significant escalation in Russia's influence in Central Africa. The attack on the airport, along with a simultaneous assault on a gendarmerie school, has been described as one of the most devastating military base attacks in Africa since the Boko Haram attack on Maiduguri air base over a decade ago. The incident, which targeted police and military installations, is seen as a symbolic and contested control event with potential casualties. This watershed event has raised concerns about future attacks in the region. The nationalist transitional administration in Mali is expected to face significant challenges in the aftermath, including potential civilian pogroms as they seek to address the security failure.