An attempted robbery targeting a mining company located in Saienssoutou, in the commune of Missirah Sirimana (department of Saraya), was thwarted this Thursday, May 7, 2026, thanks to the rapid reaction of the workers and the effectiveness of the site's security system.

According to initial reports, the attack occurred around 7:00 a.m., as a team was preparing to transport gold-bearing sand to a processing unit. A group of armed men suddenly appeared on the company's premises, causing panic among the employees.

Faced with this intrusion, the workers immediately retreated to neighboring construction sites before alerting security. The security guards' swift intervention disrupted the criminal operation, forcing the assailants to withdraw.

High-speed chase towards the Malian border

During their escape, the suspects headed towards the Malian border. One of them opened fire to cover the group's retreat. While several assailants managed to cross the Falémé River via a ford, one wounded suspect was neutralized and arrested on the spot. The apprehended alleged robber is a 23-year-old Malian national, a gold miner by trade, residing in Mossi Niaffa, on the Malian side of the border.

The incident resulted in five injuries, one of which was serious and required urgent medical attention. The injured suspect was taken to the Saraya health center before being transferred to the Amath Dansokho Regional Hospital in Kédougou.

  Deployment of security forces

Informed without delay, the defense and security forces, including the territorial brigade and elements of GARSI 2, deployed to the scene to secure the area, carry out the usual assessments and launch the first investigations.

This attempted robbery has reignited security concerns in this sensitive gold-mining area, characterized by intense mining activity and its immediate proximity to the Malian border. An investigation has been launched to identify all members of the commando, determine their exact motives, and strengthen surveillance in this strategic sector of the Saraya department.