Operation Serval: Situation update on the 31 January 2013

Over the past two days, operations have been hampered by violent sandstorms across the country.

In Timbuktu, airport runway repair work was completed in under 24 hours. Over 2000 metres of runway were repaired and aircraft are now using the runway.

The Gao area is not yet fully under control. However the Malian army is now permanently stationed in the city.

French soldiers stationed at the Kidal airport continuing their mission to secure the area while awaiting the arrival of African forces.

Nearly fifteen air operations have taken place in the last 24 hours of which 6 were specifically for fire and intelligence support.

Consolidation of positions by French troops means that logistics convoys can now be sent from Bamako to Gao to supply forces deployed to the north. This logistical capacity is vital to the successful conduct of operations.

African contingents of MISMA continue their deployment. A Nigerian and a Malian battalion arrived at Gao today. The Chadian National Armed Forces continue their offensive reconnaissance to the north to link up with French troops in Kidal.