Mali’s military arrests generals, suspected French agent in overthrow plot

Malian authorities have arrested two army generals, dozens of soldiers, civilians, and a suspected French intelligence agent over an alleged plot to destabilize the country. Security Minister Daoud Aly Mohammedine said the coup attempt, which began on August 1, involved foreign support and has been “completely foiled.” The French suspect, identified as Yann Christian Bernard Vezilier, is accused of working on behalf of France’s intelligence service. The detained generals include Abass Dembele, previously dismissed after calling for an army abuse probe, and Nema Sagara, known for fighting rebels in 2012, Al‑Jazeera has reported. Mali’s military government, led by President Assimi Goita, has distanced itself from France and aligned with Russia amid a prolonged security crisis.