Al-Qaeda-linked jihadists attack Bamako as Malian troops battle violent Islamist insurgency in north

West African bloc ECOWAS on Wednesday strongly condemned jihadist attacks which a day earlier hit the Malian capital where locals voiced concern and questions remained about the rare and deadly strike. An Al-Qaeda-linked group on Tuesday claimed responsibility for the attack in Bamako against highly sensitive targets, including a military police training centre and the military airport. The Malian capital is normally spared the sort of attacks that occur almost daily in some parts of the West African country. For in-depth analysis and a deeper perspective on the first attack of its kind in years, dealing a forceful blow to the ruling junta, FRANCE 24's François Picard is joined by Dr Niagalé Bagayoko, Political Scientist and Chair of the African Security Sector Network. 🔔 Subscribe to France 24 now: https://f24.my/YTen 🔴 LIVE - Watch FRANCE 24 English 24/7 here: https://f24.my/YTliveEN 🌍 Read the latest International News and Top Stories: https://www.france24.com/en/ Like us on Facebook: https://f24.my/FBen Follow us on X (Twitter): https://f24.my/Xen Browse the news in pictures on Instagram: https://f24.my/IGen Discover our TikTok videos: https://f24.my/TKen Get the latest top stories on Telegram: https://f24.my/TGen