The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) has dismissed recent reports concerning the alleged death of Sidna Ag Hita, a prominent figure closely associated with Iyad Ag Gali and widely considered the organization’s second-in-command. These assertions arose following an announcement from the African Legion, which claimed Ag Hita was targeted in an aerial strike near Diabaly, a key area in central Mali.
Individuals with direct knowledge of JNIM operations have confirmed that Ag Hita remains alive and in good health. They emphasize the absence of credible evidence supporting claims of his demise and note that the group itself has not released any official statement indicating he was either killed or injured, a significant detail for Mali current affairs.
Earlier, the African Legion issued a statement on Wednesday detailing an aerial assault and rocket fire aimed at a field encampment belonging to the armed group during the night of May 27. This operation underscores ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa Mali news.
The Legion further stated that their intelligence gathered prior to the operation had indicated Ag Hita’s presence within the targeted location, leading to the initial reports of his potential death.