Mali government offers rewards for information on jihadist leaders

The Malian government has rolled out a financial incentive program for citizens who come forward with credible information leading to the capture of individuals suspected of orchestrating attacks on civilians and key infrastructure across the nation.

Under this initiative, a substantial reward of two billion West African CFA francs—roughly $3.55 million—has been earmarked for anyone who provides actionable intelligence on Iyad Ag Gali, the alleged leader of the armed group Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM). Additional, smaller bounties have been assigned to other high-profile suspects on the national security watchlist.

The roster of wanted figures also includes El Ghabas Ag Antala, a prominent figure among separatist Tuareg factions operating in northern Mali.

This drastic step follows a series of high-impact assaults attributed to Al-Qaeda-affiliated factions in April, which authorities claim claimed the life of the Defense Minister and left other top officials injured. The violence, concentrated in the vast, arid expanses of the northern regions, has intensified territorial contests and heightened concerns that armed groups may further consolidate their foothold.

The decree, issued in Bamako, bears the signature of Daoud Ali Mohamedine, the country’s Minister of Security and Civil Protection, who holds the rank of Divisional General.