Authorities in Mali have arrested around 20 soldiers accused of plotting to overthrow the country’s ruling junta, according to security sources cited by AFP.
The arrests, which began three days ago, are reportedly linked to an alleged attempt to destabilize state institutions. A source within the military confirmed the plot and said “necessary arrests” had been made in response.
Among those detained is General Abass Dembele, a respected officer and former governor of the Mopti region. According to a source close to the general, he was arrested early Sunday morning in Kati, near the capital Bamako, without being informed of the reason.
Mali has faced years of instability, with ongoing violence from extremist groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, widespread criminal and sectarian unrest, and a struggling economy.
Colonel Assimi Goita, who came to power through a coup, currently leads the country. His administration has drawn criticism for recent moves, including passing a law granting him an indefinite mandate.
