Mali: Africa Corps strikes kill eight civilians in Mopti region

Human Rights Watch has accused the Africa Corps, a Russian-backed paramilitary group, of conducting air strikes in central Mali that resulted in the deaths of eight civilians, including three children. The incident occurred on June 15 in the village of Kyrnia, located in the Mopti region. According to the NGO, none of the victims were affiliated with any armed group.

Civilian casualties in Kyrnia

An investigation by Human Rights Watch revealed that a Sukhoi Su-24 jet dropped at least two bombs on the village. The first strike hit the home of the village chief, killing his wife and three children. The second targeted a nearby livestock market, leaving four additional fatalities and several injured. Witnesses confirmed the presence of fighters from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) in the area at the time of the attack, but no evidence suggests the civilians were involved in hostilities.

Africa Corps claims jihadist target

The Africa Corps, which collaborates with the Malian armed forces in counterterrorism operations, asserted on social media that the strike targeted a “terrorist gathering site.” However, Human Rights Watch disputes this claim, stating that no verifiable link exists between the victims and armed activities.

The NGO emphasized the indiscriminate nature of the strikes, highlighting the absence of jihadist casualties and the clear civilian toll. This incident raises further questions about the accuracy and oversight of military operations in the region.