UN demands probe into killing of Malian soldiers

The United Nations on Thursday demanded an investigation into the killing of at least 50 Malian soldiers in an attack by Tuareg separatists and jihadists.

The attack on the army convoy leaving the strategic northern town of Anefis occurred on Saturday, following weeks of fighting with both sides attempting to take control.

In early July, fighters from the Tuareg separatist Azawad Liberation Front (FLA) and the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (Jnim) briefly captured the town and encircled a military base used by the Malian army and Russian mercenaries from the Africa Corps.

The Jnim and the FLA claimed responsibility for the attack.

“We deplore the reported torture and killing of dozens of surrendering Malian soldiers by the Tuareg-led FLA and the Jnim armed groups,” UN human rights office spokesman Thameen Al-Kheetan said in a statement.

“There needs to be a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances of this incident, including the actions contained in the horrendous footage circulated online appearing to show FLA/Jnim members firing at the soldiers after they surrendered, with their hands behind their heads.”

Mali has been ruled by a military government since back-to-back coups in 2020 and 2021.

The junta has struggled to deliver on its promise to restore security after years of jihadist and separatist unrest.

“Killing, torturing or abusing individuals hors de combat is a war crime. The armed groups must stop such violations and prevent any recurrence,” said Kheetan.

“Accountability must be achieved, and those responsible must be brought to justice within fair trials. Remedy must be provided to victims and their families.”