Mali’s army has launched an investigation into allegations that soldiers and Russian Wagner Group mercenaries executed at least 24 civilians earlier this week, marking a rare probe into human rights abuses since the military seized power in 2020.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The Tuareg-led Front for the Liberation of Azawad accused Malian forces and Wagner operatives of attacking two civilian vehicles traveling from Gao to Algeria, reportedly setting one ablaze while some passengers in the second vehicle escaped. Witnesses claimed migrants were among the victims.
Despite the military’s condemnation of “intoxicating campaigns” against the army, analysts suggest the probe may aim to counter allegations rather than establish accountability. Mali, grappling with over a decade of insurgency, turned to Wagner for security after severing ties with France.
Human Rights Watch has previously condemned atrocities committed by Mali’s military and Russian mercenaries, as well as jihadist groups linked to ISIL and al-Qaeda.
— Naija247news
