Three Irish Defence Force members have received minor injuries after a device exploded during a patrol in Mali.

They were among the members deployed with the United Nations MINUSMA mission in Mali.

The 'operational incident' is said to have happened during a patrol to the east of the troops' base in Gao.

An improvised explosive device exploded close to the convoy, leaving the soldiers with minor injuries.

In a statement, the Defence Forces said: "Our personnel have received medical treatment and are safe and well and their next of kin and families have been contacted.

"The Defence Forces conducts intensive  pre-deployment mission training in order to prepare our personnel for such an incident."

Main image via Defence Forces