UN experts urge investigation into alleged mass killings in Mali

UN experts urge investigation into alleged mass killings in Mali
Wagner mercenaries in Mali (FILE). Photo: t.me/grey_zone

UN human rights experts have called for an independent investigation into the reported mass execution and disappearance of civilians in Mali, warning the actions may amount to war crimes or crimes against humanity, AFP reports. Their statement follows the discovery of bodies near a Malian military camp days after soldiers and Russian mercenaries allegedly detained dozens of men in Sebabougou on April 12.

Survivors told AFP that the detainees were tortured and interrogated about alleged terrorist links at the Kwala military camp, before reportedly being executed by operatives from Russia’s Wagner Group. At least 65 people are missing, with a list of 54 names submitted by credible sources.

The experts urged Malian authorities to prosecute those responsible, citing potential criminal liability under international law. Mali’s ruling junta, in power since coups in 2020 and 2021, has aligned with Russia after cutting ties with France.

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