Aguelhok is a rural commune and village in Mali’s Kidal Region. It has faced conflict and population shifts amid Mali’s northern security operations and rebel activity.
Jihadist and Tuareg forces have attacked multiple northern Malian towns and a prison, with fighting starting early Saturday. The assaults follow April offensives that saw the defence minister killed and several bases seized. Residents report ongoing gunfire and explosions as contingents clash with government and Russian troops.