Attack on convoy kills 4 soldiers in Mali's central region

Mali's defence ministry says at least four soldiers have been killed in an attack by armed men in the central Segou region.

Defence Minister Tiena Coulibaly says the gunmen ambushed the convoy Tuesday. No group has claimed responsibility, but the attack is similar to others by al-Qaeda-linked extremists in Mali's central region.

Extremist groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State organisation roam Mali's north and center, targeting Malian and French troops and other high-profile targets including the headquarters of a new regional counterterror force.

The attack comes as votes are counted after Sunday's elections. Provisional results are expected this week. If none of the 24 presidential candidates wins more than 50%, a second round will be August 12.

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