Malian authorities have detained around two dozen soldiers, including a high-ranking general, over allegations of plotting to remove the current military leadership. Security sources said the arrests, which began three days ago, targeted individuals accused of attempting to “destabilise the institutions.”
Those detained reportedly include General Abass Dembele, a former governor of Mopti region, who was taken from his home in Kati near Bamako. Officials have not publicly stated the charges against him. Some parliamentary members suggested the number of arrests could be closer to 50.
The development comes amid growing discontent within the armed forces, with analysts noting frustration over the treatment of foreign security contractors compared to Malian troops. Mali has faced years of armed violence from groups linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State, along with widespread insecurity and economic hardship.
Since 2020, the country’s leadership has shifted alliances toward Russia, with military cooperation involving mercenaries from the Wagner Group and its successor Africa Corps. However, accusations of human rights abuses persist, while attacks by armed groups continue.
Observers say the recent arrests highlight deep divisions within the military ranks and uncertainty over the country’s political direction, especially after legislation in July extended the head of state’s mandate indefinitely without elections.