Mali: Access to 39 military zones prohibited for the public

Malian authorities have prohibited the public from entering 39 zones designated as having military importance across various regions of the country. The directive was issued through an inter-ministerial decree signed by six government ministers, including the Minister Delegate to the Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs, Major General Oumar Diarra.

The decree identifies these restricted areas as locations that could potentially serve as refuges for terrorist armed groups. Consequently, the Malian Armed Forces General Staff will systematically target any activity within these zones. The affected areas are situated within the geographical scope of Operation "Dougoukoloko."

These military zones are spread across the regions of Kayes, Koulikoro, Sikasso, Bougouni, Ségou, Nioro, and Nara. This measure is part of a broader government strategy to combat terrorism.

In recent times, the Malian government has implemented several anti-terrorism measures. These include restrictions on motorcycle circulation outside major urban centers and the announcement of financial rewards for information leading to the location of key terrorist leaders.