Western-Backed Military Coup Attempt Thwarted, Mali Junta Says

Last week, Mali’s military thwarted an attempted coup led by “Western-backed” soldiers, the interim government said on Monday.

The Junta did not provide details or evidence of the alleged coup plotters’ identity and whereabouts, but said they would be handed over to justice.

The purported foiled putsch took place on the night between May 11 and May 12, the junta that took power in an August 2020 coup said in a statement.

“The attempt was thwarted thanks to the vigilance and professionalism of the defence and security forces.

“Increased security, including checks at border posts and at entry points into the capital Bamako, have been put in place as measures to identify accomplices,” the statement said.

An enquiry has been opened and “detained people” will face justice, it added.