The Malian army confirmed it came under attack on Sunday in the Kayes region while escorting a convoy of fuel trucks on the Bamako-Kayes road.
The incident occurred between Lakamané and Kaniera, with videos showing tanker trucks set ablaze.
The army said its forces responded vigorously and launched search operations to track down the perpetrators, while urging the population to remain vigilant.
The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-linked coalition, claimed responsibility for the assault.
The attack comes just days after a successful escort of Senegalese fuel tankers along the same route and amid intensified military operations in the region.
Recent strikes by Malian forces have killed dozens of fighters and led to arrests of suspected militants, but officials warn armed groups are adopting new tactics, including drones and roadside bombs.
The Bamako-Kayes axis remains critical for Mali’s economy, carrying over 800 billion CFA francs in Senegalese exports in 2024, making it a key target for insurgent disruption.
