Mali restricts large motorcycles to curb rising jihadist threats
In response to escalating security threats, Malian authorities have imposed a sweeping ban on motorcycles with engine displacements of 125 cubic centimeters or higher operating outside major urban centers. The decision, which also includes prohibitions on importing and selling such vehicles, comes as the country faces an unprecedented surge in jihadist violence and coordinated attacks that have paralyzed key highways leading to Bamako.
Malian authorities announced Wednesday evening an immediate suspension of motorcycle circulation for vehicles displacing 125cc or more outside Bamako and other major urban hubs. The measure follows a coordinated offensive by armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda and Tuareg rebels that has crippled critical supply routes to the capital.
The ban specifically targets routes “outside the district of Bamako, regional capitals, and local administrative centers,” where restrictions do not apply. Additionally, the government has halted all import, transit, commercialization, and distribution activities for these motorcycles and their components nationwide.
Background of the security crisis
The unprecedented decision comes after coordinated attacks on April 25-26 by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM)—an Al-Qaeda affiliate—and the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), a predominantly Tuareg rebel movement. Since April 30, jihadist forces have maintained a blockade on multiple highways leading to Bamako, exacerbating food and fuel shortages in the capital.
The motorcycle remains the primary mode of transport for militant groups operating across Mali’s vast Sahelian territories, where state control has significantly eroded in recent years.
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