Amnesty International has released a report detailing possible serious human rights abuses committed during military operations in Mali between 2023 and 2025. The report, relayed by Radio France Internationale, claims that victims and witnesses described executions of civilians and violence attributed to Malian soldiers and members of the Wagner group. The alleged incidents occurred in the regions of Timbuktu, Segou, and Mopti.
According to Amnesty International, at least 34 civilians not directly participating in hostilities were killed, mostly from pastoral communities. Several of these cases had previously been reported by local media and organizations. The organization also gathered accounts from women who claimed to have witnessed relatives being executed during operations in Taborak and Tin Adanda in 2025.
The Malian Armed Forces have stated that they only target "terrorist armed groups," according to their communiqués. However, Amnesty International's report contradicts this claim, describing instances of civilian casualties and violence. The organization's findings are based on testimony from victims and witnesses of seven operations conducted in the affected regions.
Amnesty International also collected testimony from 15 men who claim to have been tortured by "Wagner elements" in the military camps of Nampala and Léré. The alleged victims described physical abuse and prolonged detention without access to a lawyer or judicial review. These allegations have not been independently confirmed.
The Malian authorities have not immediately responded to these accusations, which are difficult to verify independently in the areas concerned. Amnesty International's report highlights the need for further investigation into these alleged human rights abuses. The organization's findings have sparked concerns about the conduct of military operations in Mali.
The report's release comes amid ongoing concerns about human rights in Mali, where the military has been battling extremist groups. Amnesty International's allegations against the Malian army and Wagner group add to existing tensions. The international community has called for increased accountability and transparency in military operations.
Amnesty International's report emphasizes the importance of holding those responsible for these alleged crimes accountable. The organization has urged the Malian authorities to investigate these incidents and ensure that victims receive justice. The report's findings will likely have significant implications for Mali's relations with the international community and human rights organizations.
Key points
- Amnesty International reports at least 34 civilians killed in military operations
- Malian Armed Forces claim to only target "terrorist armed groups"
- Allegations of torture and detention by Wagner elements in military camps
