The Malian Armed Forces have announced the killing of a senior commander affiliated with Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) during a drone strike in central Mali.
According to a statement issued by the General Staff, the operation took place on June 3, 2026, in the locality of Mougnan, approximately 45 kilometers west of Djenné.
The military identified the target as Oumar Kerena, also known by the aliases Farouk and Housseini Mawdo.
The statement said Kerena originated from Tébi, in the commune of Kerena, Douentza district. He reportedly began his militant career within the Movement for Unity and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) before rising through the ranks of armed groups operating in the region.
According to the Malian military, he previously served as commander of the Serma area and later coordinated operations across several sectors, including Sikasso, Koutiala, and parts of Burkina Faso.
The army described him as a key figure in the organization and coordination of militant networks, making him a high-value target.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to continuing counterterrorism operations across the country and pursuing armed group leaders until their complete dismantlement.
