By Rida Lyammouri
In 2015, The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) was targeted at least 8 times by violent extremist groups (VEOs) in Kidal, Mali alone. Groups operating in the area include al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Ansar al-Din. Below is a chronology of 2015 attacks:
- 2 improvised explosive devices (IED) related attacks
- 2 vehicle-born improvised explosive device (VBIED) related attacks
- 4 Rockets related attacks
09 January 2015: MINUSMA vehicle struck an IED. 7 Senegalese peacekeepers injured.
17 January 2015: A VBIED targeted MINUSMA checkpoint. 1 peacekeeper killed and 1 injured, both Chadians.
17 January 2015: At least 8 rockets fired by unknown militants at MINUSMA camp.
17 January 2015: A VBIED targeted MINUSMA camp.
Note: 17 January attacks were coordinated and took place simultaneously.
09 February 2015: Mortars fired at MINUSMA camp.
08 March 2015: Six shells fired at MINUSMA camp. 1 peacekeeper killed and 8 injured. 3 civilians killed and 2 injured.
08 August 2015: A vehicle of the MINUSMA Force conducting a mine clearance operation at Kidal airstrip struck an IED without causing any casualties.
28 November 2015: Six rockets hit the MINUSMA camp killing 2 peacekeepers and 1 civilian contractor, wounding 18 peacekeepers and 2 civilian contractors. Ansar al-Din claimed responsibility.
The High Council for the Unity of Azawad (HCUA) Forces in Kidal Region, Mali. Source: Maghreb and Sahel Blog Contributor.
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