Gunmen struck a transport convoy in the Faya protected forest area along the Bamako–Ségou corridor on Saturday, forcing passengers out of vehicles before setting them ablaze, according to on-site witnesses.

Injuries reported during clashes

Resistance from some drivers triggered gunfire, leaving several people wounded and reducing at least seven buses to smoldering wrecks.

Months-long blockade escalates

Since April 30, groups tied to the Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), al-Qaeda’s Sahel branch, have enforced a road cordon around Bamako. The move follows coordinated raids across Mali late last month.

Economic strain ahead of Tabaski

With the Tabaski holiday approaching, the blockade has crippled supplies—especially livestock—into the capital. Recent weeks have seen additional trucks carrying sheep set alight, deepening shortages and alarming traders.