Rebels attack paramilitary base in northern Mali

On 18 July 2008 armed Tuareg rebels attacked a paramilitary base in northern Mali near the town of Tessalit in the Sahara desert region. Authorities stated that the militants kidnapped three officers, including a brigade commander, and set fire to a police vehicle during the attack. The United Forces of Azawad rebel group claimed responsibility for the attack and announced that it is holding the officers hostage to "demand more justice, more development, more freedom for northern Mali." Government representatives in Bamako demanded the immediate release of the hostages and stated that military forces are pursuing the attackers.