Malian authorities have announced the arrest of several military officers and civilians, including two generals and a French citizen, in connection with an alleged attempted coup d’état.
General Daouda Aly Mohammedine, Mali’s Minister of Security, stated that investigations are ongoing and assured that the situation remains “fully under control.”
Allegations Involving French Citizen
French national Yann Vezilier is suspected of acting “on behalf of the French intelligence service”, collaborating with politicians, civil society representatives, and military officials to destabilize Mali, according to the minister. State television released photos of 11 individuals allegedly involved in the plot, which authorities say began on 1 August 2025.
Key Military Figures Arrested
Among those detained are:
- General Abass Dembélé, former governor of Mopti region, dismissed in May after calling for an investigation into the killing of civilians in Diafarabé.
- General Néma Sagara, recognized for her role in countering militant groups in 2012.
Expert Analysis
Analyst Rida Lyammouri from the Policy Center for the New South suggests that these arrests may aim more at intimidating opponents than addressing a real coup threat. He notes that the Malian regime has historically used similar measures against journalists, activists, and political figures who criticize the government.
Mali’s Ongoing Security Challenges
Mali has struggled with armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda and ISIS for years and has experienced two coups in the past four years. After French troops withdrew in 2022, Mali increasingly relied on Russian military assistance, yet security remains fragile and militant attacks have risen.
In June, junta leader General Assimi Goïta extended his rule by another five years, delaying the promised return to civilian governance, which had been scheduled for March 2024.
