Mali Arrests French National and Army Officers Over Alleged Coup Plot

Mali’s military government has arrested a French national and multiple army officers over an alleged coup plot, amid rising political tensions and ongoing jihadist attacks in the country.

Mali’s military government has arrested a French national, accusing him of spying for France in an attempt to destabilise the country, alongside two army generals and at least 55 other soldiers allegedly involved in a coup plot.

In a televised statement, Security Minister General Daoud Aly Mohammedine said the conspirators had sought foreign assistance to overthrow the ruling junta, which seized power in 2020 and recently extended its transitional period until 2030. The French national, identified as Yann Vezilier, has yet to comment on the accusations, and France has not issued a statement regarding his arrest.

The detentions highlight rising political tension in Mali, following the arrest of former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maïga over allegations of harming the reputation of the state and embezzlement. In May, the junta dissolved all political parties after rare anti-government protests, a move criticised as undermining national reconciliation efforts.

Persistent attacks by jihadist groups continue to plague Mali, despite the government’s alliance with Russian forces following the country’s severing of ties with France. The arrests come as the junta seeks to consolidate control and prevent perceived threats to its authority.

General Mohammedine confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify further accomplices, but emphasised that the situation is “completely under control.” Analysts suggest that the crackdown reflects the junta’s determination to maintain stability amid increasing domestic and regional pressures.