Youwarou attack

On January 25, 2018, jihadists from Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin attacked the village of Youwarou in Mali, but the attack was repelled by Malian forces.

Youwarou attack
Part of Mali War
Date January 25, 2018 Location Youwarou, Mali Result Malian victory
Belligerents
Mali	Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin
Casualties and losses
2 killed 1 injured	7 killed

Background

Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) was formed in early 2017 as a coalition of five separate jihadist groups that initially rebelled against the Malian government in 2012. One of the group's first campaigns for loot and power was in the Mopti Region of central Mali, where Katibat Macina led by Amadou Koufa (one of the five groups making up JNIM) was most active. Thirty-six Malian soldiers in Youwarou a few weeks prior to the attack had defected from their post and fled to Bamako.

Attack

The attack began at five o'clock in the morning, when unknown armed men attacked the Malian military camp in Youwarou. The battle lasted for several hours, with the Malian military releasing a statement that the military held control over the garrison.

Aftermath

The Malian government stated that two soldiers were killed and one was injured in the attack, with seven jihadists killed. Weapons and supplies were also alleged to have been captured.