airstrikes in central Mali claim eight civilian lives

Human Rights Watch has leveled serious allegations against the Africa Corps, a Russian-backed paramilitary group, accusing them of a devastating airstrike in central Mali that resulted in the deaths of eight civilians, including three children. The non-governmental organization reported that none of the victims were affiliated with any armed factions.

Human Rights Watch released a detailed report outlining the tragic events of June 15 in the village of Kyrnia, located in the Mopti region. The investigation revealed that an Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft dropped at least two munitions on the village.

Village residence struck first, killing a family

The first strike targeted the home of the village chief, resulting in the loss of his wife and three of their children. The second strike impacted a nearby livestock market, leaving four more civilians dead and several others injured. Human Rights Watch emphasized that none of the casualties were linked to any armed groups operating in the area.

Russia-backed forces claim target legitimacy

In response to the allegations, the Africa Corps asserted via social media that the operation was aimed at a “gathering point of terrorist groups.” While witnesses confirmed the presence of fighters from the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) in the village at the time of the attack, no evidence suggests that the slain civilians were participating in hostilities.