Mali’s military government announced Thursday the arrest of a group of military personnel and civilians, including two senior generals and a suspected French agent, accused of plotting to destabilize the country. The statement, delivered by Security Minister Gen. Daoud Aly Mohammedine on national television, followed days of speculation about internal unrest and confirmed that a full investigation is underway. Mohammedine assured viewers that “the situation is completely under control,” and said the alleged conspiracy began on August 1.
The arrests come amid a broader crackdown on dissent following a pro-democracy rally in May—the first public demonstration since the military seized power nearly four years ago. While details of the alleged plot remain scarce, the government identified the French national as Yann Vezilier, claiming he acted “on behalf of the French intelligence service” and coordinated with political leaders, civil society actors, and members of the Malian military. France, Mali’s former colonial power, has yet to respond publicly to the arrest.
Among those detained are Gen. Abass Dembélé, a former governor of the Mopti region who was dismissed in May after calling for an investigation into alleged civilian killings by the Malian army, and Gen. Néma Sagara, a decorated officer known for her role in counterinsurgency efforts in 2012. National television aired photos of 11 individuals said to be involved in the plot, reinforcing the government’s narrative of a foiled conspiracy.
Mali continues to grapple with a volatile security landscape, facing persistent threats from armed groups affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State. Following two coups, the ruling junta expelled French forces and turned to Russia for military support, though attacks have intensified in recent months. In June, military leader Gen. Assimi Goita was granted an extension of five years in power, despite earlier commitments to restore civilian rule by March 2024. That decision followed the dissolution of political parties in May, further consolidating the junta’s grip on power amid growing international concern.