Armed Group Claims Drone and Shell Attack on Military Position in Kidal Region

Kidal, March 30, 2026 - The security situation in northern Mali remains highly volatile after the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) announced a coordinated attack targeting Malian forces and allied personnel in the Anefif area. In a statement, the group said it carried out the operation using two kamikaze drones and 18 shells against positions allegedly held by the Malian Armed Forces and Russian personnel affiliated with the Afrika Korps. The FLA claimed the attack resulted in seven fatalities and nine injuries, as well as the destruction of two armored vehicles and one truck. It also reported the burning of a fuel depot and the disabling of a communications center. According to the statement, casualties were evacuated by helicopter to Gao. The group further claimed it suffered no losses during the operation. Visual reports cited in local accounts described smoke rising from the targeted military camp following the assault. As of publication, the Malian authorities had not issued an official statement confirming or denying the reported attack.