Two young men lost their lives in a fatal shooting near the headquarters of the Malian Office of Radio and Television (ORTM) in Bamako early Thursday morning. The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. in a high-security zone that also houses one of the capital’s most prominent hotels.

According to military authorities, the two individuals, traveling on a motorcycle, allegedly attempted to breach security checkpoints surrounding the ORTM complex. However, eyewitness accounts suggest they may have been seasonal workers heading to their construction site.

Residents of Bamako remain deeply divided over the military’s response, particularly as the city adapts to an increasing number of security roadblocks.

Strict security measures in place

The checkpoints near the ORTM were established in late April during ongoing clashes between the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and fighters from the Group to Support Islam and Muslims (JNIM), whose coordinated attacks had struck seven locations across the country, including Bamako.

Military officials stated that the two men ignored warning shots fired by the checkpoint guards after allegedly forcing their way through the first barrier. The guards then opened fire, resulting in the deaths of both individuals.

One local driver, who requested anonymity, emphasized the risks of navigating such areas during heightened alert periods. « Everyone knows these zones are off-limits without authorization, especially now. If there’s an alert, you must stop immediately to avoid trouble. The guards were justified in their actions that morning. »

Questions raised over use of lethal force

Not everyone agrees with this assessment. Seyba, a resident of Bamako, believes the military could have taken non-lethal measures to detain the men for questioning. « Why didn’t they aim for the motorcycle or wound them in the legs instead of killing them? Now we’ll never know what truly happened. Even if they were suspected militants, this approach leaves too many unanswered questions. »

Based on accounts from the scene, the two men were likely seasonal laborers heading to their worksite. Eyewitnesses speculate they may have been unaware of the strict access rules in the area.

In response to the incident, security around the ORTM has been tightened. Similar measures have been implemented at military camps across the capital, as well as at Bamako-Sénou International Airport, which remains accessible only to travelers and authorized personnel.