16 dead after extremists attack army camps in central Mali

Officials and residents say at least 16 people have been killed, including two civilians, after al-Qaida-linked groups attacked two bases in central Mali near the Burkina Faso border.

Niger General Oumarou Namatou Gazama, a commander with the regional G5 Sahel Force, said Tuesday that Ansarul Islam extremists with heavy weapons targeted the force's Malian battalion in Boulikessi overnight Sunday to Monday.

A resident said he saw at least 12 dead soldiers. He spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of his safety.

Mali's government confirmed the attack, saying there were heavy equipment losses and major damage.

A Mondoro resident said armed men attacked another Malian army camp there the same night, killing four people including two civilians.