A high-level delegation from Mali’s transitional government, led by the Minister of State for Reconciliation, Peace and National Cohesion, General Ismaël Wagué, arrived in Bandiagara on Monday, May 11, 2026. The visit followed a brutal terrorist attack on May 6 that targeted the villages of Kori-Kori and Gomossogou in the Bankass district.
The delegation formally conveyed the government’s condolences during a ceremony at the regional governor’s office. As part of the relief effort, they distributed 25 tons of millet, 25 tons of rice, and a financial aid package totaling 20 million West African CFA francs to support affected families.
While no official death toll has been released by authorities, the Dana Ambassagou traditional hunters’ militia reported over 60 fatalities, numerous injuries, and severe property damage. Militant leader Youssouf Toloba claimed the villages were deliberately targeted after refusing to enter into so-called “peace agreements” with armed terrorist groups operating in the region.
In response, Noël Tessougué, deputy chief of the Dana Ambassagou militia, vowed that villages entering into such agreements with members of the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) would no longer be spared from retaliatory attacks.
During his address, Minister Ismaël Wagué reaffirmed the transitional authorities’ commitment to ending violence against civilians across the country. He concluded his speech with a strong appeal for national unity, solidarity, and cohesion to collectively address Mali’s ongoing security challenges.