Dozens of Soldiers Arrested in Mali for Alleged Plot against Military Junta

Mon Oct 20 2025 13:30:14 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A sudden wave of arrests in Mali has raised fears of unrest as soldiers are detained over a suspected coup.

Mali's military government is experiencing growing internal tensions, culminating in over 50 arrests of military personnel accused of plotting against the junta, amidst a backdrop of increasing jihadist threats.

In a shocking escalation of political strife, dozens of Malian soldiers have been detained in connection with an alleged plan to overthrow the military government, sources within the country report. These arrests, which reportedly took place overnight and are expected to continue, highlight the deepening unrest within Mali's military administration.

Challenges from escalating jihadist activities in the northern regions have intensified scrutiny on the junta, which came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021 led by Gen Asimi Goïta. The government has not yet issued a statement regarding the recent wave of arrests.

Among those initially believed to be detained are Gen Abass Dembele, former governor of Mopti, and Gen Nema Sagara, a significant figure within Malawi’s military hierarchy. However, reports from close associates of Gen Dembele suggest he remains at home and has not been arrested.

According to a military source cited by the AFP news agency, around 50 soldiers are being apprehended under suspicions of attempting to destabilize the ruling government. A legislative representative noted there have been "about 50 arrests," while security insiders placed the number at a minimum of 20, reflecting rising concerns over attempts to challenge military governance.

Previous tension has emerged from the junta's crackdown on former Prime Ministers, Moussa Mara and Choguel Maiga, who face accusations of defamation and financial embezzlement. Critically, Mara has been in custody since August 1, while Maiga is undergoing legal challenges.

In an unprecedented move, the military junta dissolved all political parties in May, following widespread protests against their governance. Promises made by Gen Goïta regarding forthcoming elections have remained unfulfilled, leading to a recent extension of the military rule for an additional five years, allowing him to stay in charge until at least 2030.

With Mali undergoing relentless insurgency from Islamist groups since 2012 and ongoing instability, the junta has sought assistance from Russian allies to control the militant threat, which surged following its severance of ties with France. Despite these efforts, significant improvements in security remain elusive.