Around 20 people were killed in northern Mali on Monday when two civilian vehicles came under attack while traveling toward the Algerian border. Reports from local sources suggest that Wagner mercenaries and Malian soldiers may have been involved, though details remain unclear.
A relative of one of the victims, speaking from the city of Gao, stated that their cousin was among those killed. “The first vehicle came under fire, and everyone in it was killed, including my cousin,” they said anonymously, adding that the passengers included migrants and nomadic travelers.
The Malian army has not issued an official response to the allegations. However, a military source denied the claims, stating that an investigation was underway and maintaining that “the army killed no one.” A regional representative from Gao described the incident as a serious attack on civilians, confirming that “at least 20 people lost their lives in the Tilemsi region.”
The Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA), a separatist group, issued a statement condemning the attack and alleging that Malian forces and Wagner personnel were involved. According to the FLA, two vehicles were intercepted, and at least 24 people, including women and children, were killed. These claims have not been independently verified.
Mali has faced ongoing security challenges following military coups in 2020 and 2021. The government has relied on new security partnerships after ending its cooperation with France, while armed groups continue to operate in various parts of the country, contributing to instability.
International human rights organizations have previously raised concerns over violence affecting civilians in Mali. In December, Human Rights Watch reported various human rights violations linked to multiple actors in the region. As the situation develops, observers caution that further incidents could heighten tensions in northern Mali, where security remains fragile.