In Mali, the weekend was marked by a new attack in the middle of the country. Three people were killed on Sunday in Goma Coura, in the Niono circle.
Several local elected officials give an assessment of three killed. The figures differ on the number of injured – between two and six – and there is also talk that one is missing. The Malian army has not been able to confirm a toll.
The pattern is now classic: farmers from Goma Coura were on their way to the fields to harvest when armed men, on board two pickups and several motorcycles, attacked them. Goma Coura is located about twenty kilometers from Farabougou, in the circle of Niono, a circle living under the influence of jihadist warriors who have prevented residents from moving freely for more than two months now.
A local elected official explains that traditional Dozo hunters escorted the farmers who were attacked on Sunday and regrets that the army “does not play its role” in protecting the population. Another adds that the presence of the hunters, themselves accused of abusing Fulani, is perceived as a provocation by the jihadists, which increases the risk of attacks.
New attempt at mediation
Discussions are underway to help calm the situation. Since Saturday, a new attempt at mediation has begun, led by the High Islamic Council and notable in the area, in line with the recommendations of the Government Forum held in Niono last month. Direct mediation with dozo hunters, jihadist fighters and Fulani self-defense groups. According to one of the members of this mediation, the aim is to “facilitate the free movement of people” and put an end to this cycle of violence.
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