Canadian special forces in Mali, but not in combat role, sources say

OTTAWA – Sources within the Department of National Defence say Canadian special forces are on the ground in Mali.

Few other details are available, although the sources say the soldiers are in the African country solely to protect Canadian personnel who are already there.

A spokesman for the Department of Foreign Affairs says there will be no combat mission in Mali, but that “steps have been taken” to protect Canadian personnel.

Canadian Forces crews have been piloting and supporting Canada’s C-17 heavy-lift transport as it moves military equipment in support of French troops.

The mission is scheduled to continue until Feb. 15.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says any further role for Canada would require consultation with parliamentarians.