On 14 August 2025, Mali’s Security Minister General Daoud Aly Mohammedine confirmed the arrest of French national Yann Vezilier.
Vezilier is accused of working “on behalf of the French intelligence service” to destabilise Mali’s military-led government.
His image was broadcast on national television alongside 11 alleged conspirators. France has not yet issued an official response to the arrest or the espionage allegations.
MALIAN GENERALS LINKED TO COUP PLOT
Two senior Malian generals were also arrested in connection with the alleged coup plot. General Abass Dembele, former governor of Mopti, was dismissed in May after demanding an inquiry into army-led civilian killings.
General Nema Sagara, previously praised for her role in the 2012 rebel combat, was also detained. Security sources told AFP that at least 55 soldiers have been arrested so far.
FOREIGN INVOLVEMENT AND POLITICAL TENSIONS
The junta claims the plot involved “foreign states” and that Vezilier mobilised political leaders, civil society actors, and military personnel.
General Mohammedine asserts that they “completely foiled” the alleged conspiracy, which started on 1 August 2025.
Political tensions have escalated, with former Prime Ministers Moussa Mara and Choguel Maïga arrested for embezzlement and defamation. Mara has been detained since 1 August.
SECURITY CRISIS AND EXTENDED TRANSITION
Mali has faced a security crisis since 2012, driven by jihadist violence and criminal gangs.
Junta leader Assimi Goïta, who seized power in 2020 and 2021, extended his rule until 2030 despite earlier promises of elections.
Mali has severed ties with France and aligned with Russia to combat insurgency, though attacks have intensified. Investigations into “possible accomplices” are ongoing.
WHAT IMPACT COULD THIS ARREST HAVE ON MALI-FRANCE DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS?
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