JNIM Ambush on Military Convoy Causes Heavy Losses on Diboli-Kayes Axis

Kayes, January 29, 2026 - The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) claimed responsibility for an ambush on a Malian army convoy escorting fuel tankers between Diboli and Kayes in the Kayes region on Thursday, January 29, 2026. According to JNIM, the attack resulted in the deaths of two Malian soldiers and the seizure of a motorcycle, multiple weapons, and a large quantity of ammunition. The group also claims to have set fire to four military vehicles. The ambush reportedly caused the burning of approximately fifty fuel tankers, further exacerbating the ongoing energy crisis in the country. Witnesses and local sources indicate that around ten bodies remain by the roadside between Kayes and Diboli, near the burned tankers, raising serious humanitarian and health concerns. This incident highlights the human toll of the attack and underscores the deteriorating security situation along this strategic route connecting Mali to Senegal.