Attack underway on African counterterror force’s HQ in Mali | The Indian Express

Attack underway on African counterterror force’s HQ in Mali | The Indian Express

Attack underway on African counterterror force’s HQ in Mali

A number of extremist groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group are active in Mali, often attacking local security forces and a UN peacekeeping mission.

By: AP | Bamako | Published: June 29, 2018 11:23:08 pm

The commander of a new five-nation counterterror force in West Africa says an attack is underway on its headquarters in Mali’s central town of Sevare.  (Source: Google Maps)

The commander of a new five-nation counterterror force in West Africa says an attack is underway on its headquarters in Mali’s central town of Sevare. Gen Didier Dacko tells The Associated Press the attack began with a car explosion, and fighting continues. He spoke from Niger. This is the first time the G5 headquarters has been targeted.

A number of extremist groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group are active in Mali, often attacking local security forces and a UN peacekeeping mission.

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51m

Boko Haram: The Origins of Evil

How has the extremist group Boko Haram, which began as a small Islamic sect, managed to make Nigeria, the richest country in Africa, and all its neighbours, tremble with fear? Who are they and how did they become so powerful?

Warning: Contains Violence

The 5,000-strong counterterror force launched last year and includes Mali, Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger and Mauritania. It has received millions of dollars in backing from the European Union, Saudi Arabia and others.

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