The military authorities in Mali have announced a $3.5 million reward for information leading to the arrest of senior jihadist commander Iyad Ag Ghaly, as part of intensified counterterrorism operations in the Sahel region.
The ruling junta said the bounty forms part of wider efforts to dismantle militant networks blamed for prolonged insecurity, including killings, displacement, and repeated attacks across northern and central parts of the country. Officials believe the wanted leader plays a central role in coordinating assaults on both security forces and civilian populations.
According to the transitional government, the reward initiative is intended to strengthen public participation in intelligence gathering and support ongoing military operations against extremist groups.
A spokesperson for the Malian transitional authorities said the measure underscores the government’s resolve to restore stability and degrade terrorist capabilities nationwide.
“The government is committed to taking all necessary measures to neutralise terrorist threats and restore peace across the country.”
The announcement comes as Malian forces, working alongside regional allies and foreign partners, continue sustained operations against armed groups affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State network.
Security experts note that such financial incentives are designed to disrupt insurgent command structures, though they caution that vast terrain and fluid militant alliances continue to hinder counterinsurgency efforts.
Since taking power, the junta has consistently prioritised security as a central objective, amid ongoing instability across the broader Sahel region.
