Mali’s transitional government has launched an investigation into claims that its soldiers executed at least 24 civilians in the country’s northern region.
The accusations were made by the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), a Tuareg separatist rebel alliance engaged in conflict with the Malian government.
According to the FLA, Malian forces and Wagner mercenaries intercepted two passenger vehicles traveling from Gao to Algeria, killing all onboard, including women and children.
In response, Mali’s army chief, Gen Oumar Diarra, dismissed the allegations as “unfounded,” attributing them to “terrorist networks, allies, and sponsors.” Mali has long faced security challenges, battling both Tuareg separatists seeking independence in the north and jihadist groups linked to Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
Following military coups in 2020 and 2021, the ruling military government enlisted Russian Wagner mercenaries to bolster security.
However, both Malian forces and Wagner operatives have repeatedly been accused of committing human rights abuses, accusations they strongly deny.
