The Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for two separate attacks in Mali this morning, targeting Malian army positions in Koutiala and a joint Malian army and Africa Corps vehicle between Timbuktu and Niafunke. The attacks occurred on October 6th, 2025, during the reporting window between 9:04 AM and 12:04 PM UTC. JNIM stated they took control of a Malian army position in Koutiala, located in the Sikasso region of southern Mali. Separately, the militant group claimed to have targeted a vehicle belonging to the Malian army and the Africa Corps on the road between Timbuktu and Niafunke. This latter engagement involved an improvised explosive device, according to SahelLeaks. Reports indicate that the attack on the Africa Corps vehicle near Niafunke resulted in five fatalities. The exact timing of the Koutiala incident was not specified, but the claim was made during the reporting period. The Africa Corps is a military unit composed of Russian personnel operating in Mali.
