Africa Corps airstrikes in Mali claim eight civilian lives, rights group alleges
Human Rights Watch has leveled serious allegations against Africa Corps, the Russian-backed paramilitary group operating in Mali, accusing its forces of carrying out deadly airstrikes that killed eight civilians—including three children—in the central region of the country on June 15. According to the organization, none of the victims were affiliated with any armed group.
Civilian casualties in a central Mali village
A report released by Human Rights Watch details how a Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft conducted at least two airstrikes on the village of Kyrnia in the Mopti region. The first strike reportedly struck the village chief’s residence, killing his wife and three children. The second targeted a nearby livestock market, resulting in four additional fatalities and multiple injuries. The organization emphasized that none of the victims had any ties to armed factions.
Africa Corps claims jihadist target, but evidence remains inconclusive
Africa Corps, which collaborates with Mali’s armed forces in combating jihadist groups, asserted on social media that the operation targeted a « gathering point for terrorist organizations. » However, Human Rights Watch noted conflicting accounts from witnesses who reported the presence of Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) fighters in the village at the time of the strikes. The organization stressed that there is no evidence to suggest the civilians killed were participating in hostilities.
