[1] He joined the Libyan Islamic Legion at a young age and fought in the Lebanese Civil War.

On his return to Mali, he joined the Arab Islamic Front of Azawad (FIAA) during the Tuareg rebellion of the 1990s.

[1] Bou rose through the Malian ranks due to his knowledge of Tombouctou Region, and fought against Ibrahim Ag Bahanga.

[4] Bou's death occurred a week after AQIM killed hostage Edwin Dyer, a British national.

In response, Malian authorities coordinated an anti-jihadist operation alongside Algeria, Mauritania, and Nigeria.