BAMAKO, April 28 (Xinhua) -- Assimi Goita, Mali's transitional president, said Tuesday that operations would continue until all groups involved in the April 25 attacks are neutralized and lasting security is restored across the country.
In a televised address to the nation at 8 p.m. local time, Goita said the April 25 attacks, which he described as "complex, coordinated and simultaneous," targeted Bamako, Kati, Mopti, Gao and Kidal.
He said the assailants had been dealt a heavy blow thanks to the prompt response and professionalism of the defense and security forces, adding that the attackers had sought to create a climate of generalized violence in the localities concerned.
The head of state added that the security deployment had been reinforced, the situation was under control, and sweeping, search, intelligence-gathering and security operations were continuing.
Goita also paid tribute to Mali's Defense Minister Gen. Sadio Camara, saying his passing represented "an immense loss for the Malian nation."
He expressed condolences to bereaved families and sympathy to the wounded, while instructing the government to take all necessary measures to strengthen assistance to victims, support affected families and care for the injured.
He said the attacks were part of "a vast destabilization plan" devised and carried out by terrorist armed groups and their internal and external backers.
Goita also called on Malians to remain vigilant, trust the defense and security forces, and not give in to rumors, panic messages or manipulation, warning that disinformation could become a weapon in the service of terrorists. ■