Al Qaeda branch in Mali offers €2 million bounty for president
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Al Qaeda's affiliate in Mali has offered a €2 million bounty for the capture of President Assimi Goïta, Reuters reported. The group, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), announced the reward in a statement, escalating its campaign against the junta-led government.
The Bounty
JNIM, al Qaeda's main branch in the Sahel, offered €2 million for President Assimi Goïta's capture, according to a statement cited by Reuters. The reward targets Goïta, who seized power in a 2021 coup and has since led a military government. The group also offered smaller bounties for other senior officials.
Security Context
Mali has faced a decade-long insurgency by jihadist groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State. The junta has expelled French troops and turned to Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group for security. Despite this, attacks have continued, with JNIM expanding its territorial control in central and northern Mali.
What's Next
The Malian government has not yet commented on the bounty. It remains unclear whether the reward will lead to increased attacks or defections within the security forces.
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Al Qaeda branch in Mali offers €2 million bounty for president
