Moroccan Trucks Targeted in Armed Attack at Mali-Mauritania Border
Dozens of Moroccan trucks were attacked by armed groups in Nioro du Sahel near the Mali-Mauritania border, causing material damage but no injuries. The Malian army intervened, repelling the assault. Calls for enhanced protection for drivers in West Africa highlight ongoing security challenges amid increasing regional tensions and terrorist activities.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Dozens of Moroccan trucks engaged in international freight transport were attacked by armed groups in the Nioro du Sahel area, located on the border between Mali and Mauritania. This incident occurred overnight from Monday to Tuesday, resulting in significant material damage but fortunately no injuries or fatalities among the drivers.
Details of the Attack
Around 30 Moroccan trucks were parked when clashes erupted between armed gangs and the Malian army, leading to gunfire aimed at the vehicles. The drivers managed to escape unharmed and returned only after the Malian army regained control of the area. The General Staff of the Malian Armed Forces confirmed that they successfully repelled an attack from a large number of terrorists who had infiltrated the region with internal support[1][2].
Call for Protection
In light of this alarming situation, Sharqi Al-Hashimi, national secretary of the General Union of International and National Transport Professionals, urged Moroccan authorities to enhance protection for drivers operating in West Africa, particularly at the Mali-Mauritania crossing. He emphasized that this incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by drivers due to deteriorating security conditions in the region[1][2].
Context of Regional Tensions
This attack reflects broader tensions in the Sahel region, where security has been increasingly compromised by terrorist activities. The confrontation involved intense gunfire, resulting in vehicle destruction and prompting focused security operations aimed at preventing future incidents. The Mali-Mauritania border has become one of Africa's most volatile areas, exacerbated by deteriorating relations between the two nations and a surge in terrorist attacks since 2021[1][2].
This incident is part of a larger pattern of violence affecting transport operations across borders in West Africa, raising urgent concerns about safety and security for international freight transporters operating in these high-risk areas.
