Mali: Africa Corps faces accusations over deadly airstrikes on civilians

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has leveled serious allegations against the Russia-backed Africa Corps paramilitary unit, accusing them of conducting airstrikes in central Mali that resulted in the deaths of eight civilians, including three children. According to the international watchdog, the attacks occurred on June 15 in the village of Kyrnia, located in the Mopti region, with no evidence suggesting any of the victims were affiliated with armed groups.

Civilians targeted in Mopti village

The HRW report details how a Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft deployed at least two munitions on Kyrnia, a community already grappling with instability. The first strike demolished the village chief’s residence, killing his wife and three children. A second attack, targeting a nearby livestock market, claimed four additional lives and left several others injured. The NGO emphasized that none of the victims had any connection to militant activities.

Africa Corps claims counterterrorism operation

The Africa Corps, which collaborates with Malian armed forces in combating jihadist factions, asserted in a social media statement that the strikes targeted a “terrorist gathering point.” While witnesses reported the presence of Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) fighters in the village at the time, HRW noted that there was no verifiable link between the civilians killed and armed conflict.

The stark contrast between HRW’s findings and the Africa Corps’ narrative underscores the growing concerns over civilian casualties in Mali’s security operations. The incident has intensified scrutiny of military tactics employed in the region, where counterinsurgency efforts continue to face criticism for their humanitarian impact.