The Malian government has launched an investigation into the killing of 24 civilians, including women and children, in the Tilemsi commune of Gao region on February 17. Initially, the Malian Armed Forces denied any involvement in the massacre, calling the accusations unfounded and part of a smear campaign by terrorist groups aiming to discredit them.
However, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised concerns over the growing involvement of the Russian-backed Wagner Group in military operations. HRW claims that since May 2024, Malian forces have been linked to numerous civilian deaths, including drone strikes, enforced disappearances, and the burning of homes in central and northern Mali. The Wagner Group, a private military contractor often associated with Russia, has been accused of complicity in these human rights violations, with little legal action taken against the perpetrators.
The investigation comes amidst increasing tensions following the withdrawal of the United Nations peacekeeping force (MINUSMA) from Mali, as mandated by UN Security Council Resolution 2690. This departure has exacerbated political instability and fueled insurgent activity, contributing to a surge in civilian casualties.
Concerns over the conduct of Malian forces were further echoed by UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk. Türk condemned credible reports of executions by Malian forces and foreign personnel, highlighting similar incidents earlier in the year, such as the January 26 killing of at least 25 people in Welingara village. He expressed alarm over the lack of accountability, noting that the UN has found no evidence of investigations by Mali’s authorities into these killings.
The ongoing investigation and international scrutiny underscore the growing concern over human rights abuses by state-backed military groups in Mali.
