Human Rights Watch reports civilian killings and torture in Mali

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has released a report accusing the Malian military and its Russian-controlled allies, the Africa Corps, of committing grave laws-of-war violations. The watchdog documented instances where soldiers and paramilitary fighters killed and wounded scores of civilians through attacks and while in custody.

Specific allegations include an apparent indiscriminate drone strike in Guélédié village within the Mopti region, which reportedly killed eight men and injured at least six others. Additionally, HRW documented inhumane detention conditions at the Hamadoun Bocary Barry army base in Sévaré. Former detainees reported being held in overcrowded, poorly ventilated metal shipping containers without access to toilets, washing facilities, or adequate food and medical care.

HRW also noted that opposition armed groups have committed abuses, including the torture and execution of captured Malian soldiers. The organization has called on the African Union’s Peace and Security Council to take urgent action to prevent further atrocities in the country.