Mali latest news: Africa Corps strikes kill eight civilians, HRW claims
Human Rights Watch has accused the Russian-backed Africa Corps of carrying out lethal 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.
Civilian casualties in Kyrnia village
A detailed report by Human Rights Watch reveals that a Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft conducted at least two airstrikes on Kyrnia village. The first strike targeted the village chief’s residence, killing his wife and three children. The second strike hit a nearby livestock market, claiming four more lives and leaving several others injured. According to HRW, none of the victims had any ties to armed groups.
Russia-backed forces deny civilian targeting
The Africa Corps, which collaborates with Mali’s armed forces in combating jihadist factions, asserted in a statement that the operation was directed at a « gathering point for terrorist groups. » However, Human Rights Watch counters this claim, noting that while witnesses reported the presence of fighters from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) in the village at the time, there is no evidence to suggest the civilians were involved in hostilities.
