Armed fighters launched simultaneous attacks in five locations across Mali on Saturday, including a northern town where government troops and Russian mercenaries are based and a town south of the capital Bamako, according to military and security sources.

The army confirmed attacks on Aguelhok, Anefis, Gao, Sevare and Kenieroba. AFP reported that a prison in Kenieroba was attacked, citing residents and security sources. Fighting began around 5:00 AM local time.

The Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) claimed responsibility for the attack on Anefis. Spokesperson Mohamed Elmaouloud Ramadane said “several positions have fallen, but fighting is still underway inside the city.” A resident confirmed that armed groups are in the town but the army is resisting.

In Gao, a local official reported gunfire and rockets targeting a military camp since before dawn. Explosions were heard in Sevare, and aircraft were spotted overhead. The prison complex in Kenieroba was also under attack, a prisoner told AFP.

Saturday's assault is the latest challenge to Mali's military-led government, which has been losing ground in the north since April attacks that included a strike on Bamako's airport and the seizure of army bases.

Source: www.aljazeera.com