The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) announced on Sunday, June 14, the elimination of a jihadist leader identified as a prominent cadre within the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM).

According to an official statement from the General Staff, the individual, known by the aliases Oumar Kéréna, Farouk, and Housseini Mawdo, was killed during a precision drone strike conducted on June 3rd in Mougnan. This location is situated approximately forty kilometers from Djenné, deep within the country’s central region.

Malian authorities characterize him as a former member of the Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO), who over time ascended to an influential position among the various jihadist factions operating across Mali and the broader West Africa region.

A central figure in jihadist networks

Military intelligence indicates that the neutralized leader previously held command responsibilities in the Serma area before extending his oversight to armed operations in several sectors of the Sikasso and Koutiala regions, as well as certain zones within neighboring Burkina Faso.

The General Staff emphasizes his critical role in coordinating networks affiliated with JNIM, the principal jihadist coalition active throughout the Sahel and known for its ties to Al-Qaeda.

Bamako intensifies its security approach

This announcement comes just days after a significant policy shift by Malian authorities. On June 4th, the government launched an unprecedented reward system, offering financial incentives of up to two billion CFA francs for any actionable intelligence leading to the location or apprehension of several high-ranking armed and terrorist group leaders.

Notably, the largest bounty is specifically aimed at Iyad Ag Ghali, widely considered the most wanted individual in the nation.

This latest operation underscores Bamako’s escalating military pressure against jihadist organizations. It occurs amidst a backdrop of increasing armed attacks and persistent security tensions impacting multiple regions of Mali and the wider Sahel, highlighting a determined effort to stabilize Mali security.