Mali to investigate claims soldiers ‘executed’ women and children

Malian army commandos ride in a convoy on a road outside Gao, Mali (AP Photo File)

|Published 11:00 PM ET, Monday February 24, 2025|

BAMAKO: Mali’s military government says it is investigating allegations that soldiers “coldly executed” at least 24 civilians in the north of the country on Monday.

These allegations, reported by separatist Tuareg groups the Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), assert that two passenger vehicles traveling from Gao to Algeria were intercepted and their occupants, notably non-combatants, summarily executed.

Key aspects of this incident include:

The Allegations: The separatist Tuareg rebel alliance, called Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), has accused Malian forces, alongside Russian Wagner mercenaries, of deliberately targeting civilians. They claim that at least 24 people, including women and children, were executed in what has been described as a “cold” and methodical operation.

Government Response: Army chief General Oumar Diarra dismissed these claims as “unfounded,” framing them as part of a disinformation campaign by terrorist networks and their backers. The government insists that the allegations are false and that the investigation will confirm their position.

Context of Conflict: This investigation comes amid a broader context of instability in Mali. The country has faced continuous conflict for over a decade, marked by separatist movements in the north and jihadist insurgencies. The government’s reliance on Russian mercenaries, particularly the Wagner Group, since the 2020 coup has further complicated the conflict, leading to repeated accusations of human rights abuses by both domestic and international rights groups.

Skepticism Over the Investigation: Analysts and rights organizations are cautious about the probe’s likely outcomes, suggesting it might be used to counter negative international perceptions rather than lead to any substantial accountability.

Overall, this investigation highlights the challenges facing Mali as it grapples with internal divisions, external influence, and long-standing human rights concerns. As developments continue, both local and international observers will be watching closely to see whether the investigation yields any concrete findings or reforms.