Malian Army Reports Bamako 'Under Control' After Gun Attack

Authorities report the attack on the military center in Bamako has been successfully thwarted.

This video still from AFPTV on September 17, 2024, shows a plume of smoke rising in Bamako as gunfire and explosions were heard [AFPTV/AFP].

Mali’s military government has announced it thwarted a "terrorist" attack in the capital, assuring the public that the situation is now "under control."

On Tuesday, the army reported that it was conducting a security sweep after repelling gunmen who targeted a military police center in Bamako. The country’s military government has been battling rebel groups since its 2021 coup.

The attack took place at a military facility in the Feladie district, southeast of the capital near the main airport. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire and explosions early Tuesday morning.

"Early this morning, a group of terrorists attempted to infiltrate the Faladie gendarmerie school. Mopping-up operations are ongoing throughout the area," the army said in a statement.

Authorities urged residents to avoid the area and await official updates. Due to the unrest, Bamako's Modibo Keita International Airport was temporarily closed, according to an airport official.