As part of Operation Tassiga, the Command of Military Region No. 5 deployed a mission from October 6 to 13, 2025, under the command of Commander Sambou COULIBALY. The main objective was to secure the Tonka area and strengthen the bonds of trust between the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and the local population.
On this occasion, a large quantity of food was donated to the towns of Tonka, Kochia, and Rabebe, along with medical assistance. Several individuals suspected of being linked to armed terrorist groups were arrested and handed over to the Gendarmerie.
Commander COULIBALY emphasized that his mission aims to maintain the military presence in the area, particularly since the relocation of the government to Timbuktu. He stated that the absence of forces stationed in Tonka had facilitated the passage of armed groups, and called on the population to remain united and cooperative to stabilize the city. He reaffirmed that the army remains committed to its role of protecting people and their property.
The Mayor of Tonka, Mamadou Konipo, expressed relief at the presence of the FAMa in his constituency. He welcomed the donations, which came at a crucial time for the most vulnerable populations, and described this assistance as both salutary and symbolic. He called on the authorities to increase this type of initiative to strengthen security and confidence in the region.
Sgt. Abdoulaye Traore
