Wave of Arrests in Mali Over Alleged Coup Conspiracy

Tue Oct 21 2025 15:28:35 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Dozens of soldiers detained amid rising tensions within Mali's military government as allegations of a coup plot surface.

In Mali, authorities have reportedly arrested several soldiers in connection with an alleged plot to overthrow the ruling junta. The arrests, which appear tied to increasing political unrest and a rising jihadist threat, have led to speculation about tensions within the military ranks. Key military figures are said to have been targeted, though some reports indicate they remain free.

Mali is witnessing a significant crackdown within its military ranks, as dozens of soldiers have been detained under suspicion of attempting to overthrow the current military junta. According to various sources, the widespread arrests took place overnight and are expected to escalate amid growing tensions within the government. The junta has been facing mounting challenges, including a resurgence of jihadist violence in the northern regions of the country.

Key figures within the military, such as Gen Abass Dembele, the former governor of Mopti, and Gen Nema Sagara, one of the few high-ranking female officers, were rumored to be among those detained. However, a source close to Gen Dembele has refuted his arrest, stating he remains safe at home.

Reports from the AFP news agency suggest that approximately 50 soldiers have been detained, all primarily military personnel. An unnamed lawmaker indicated that these soldiers' goal was to destabilize the junta's rule. Despite these alarming developments, the junta administration has yet to release an official statement regarding the ongoing arrests.

The situation has been exacerbated by a crackdown on former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga due to accusations of undermining the state's integrity. Mara, an outspoken critic of the junta, has been imprisoned since August, while Maiga is facing judicial penalties.

In a move described as a setback for reconciliation efforts, the junta dissolved all political parties following anti-government protests earlier this year. Additionally, the junta leader, Gen Asimi Goïta, has extended his transition authority for another five years, eliminating the chance for elections that were initially promised.

Mali's security landscape remains fraught with challenges, as the country grapples with an active Islamist insurgency that has persisted since 2012. Following the breakdown of relationships with France, Mali has sought support from Russian allies to fortify its defenses against increasing jihadist threats, but tangible improvements in security are yet to be realized.