DAKAR: At least 13 civilians have been killed by suspected militants in northern Mali, according to elected officials on Wednesday. The violence occurred in the Gabero area of the Gao region, prompting hundreds of people to flee their villages.
Local officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, provided a provisional death toll of 13, with around a dozen others wounded. Another official claimed that the number of casualties was higher, stating that “more than 17 people” had been killed.
Chronic Instability in Northern Mali
The attack took place in an area where the Malian army was reportedly absent. Northern Mali has experienced chronic instability since 2012, with the emergence of militant and separatist insurgencies. The government’s inability to contain the violence has contributed to public discontent, leading to two coups in 2020 and 2021.
The military junta, which now holds power in Mali, has turned to Russia for support, hiring what it refers to as Russian military instructors to assist in the fight against rebels. However, Western countries have raised concerns, alleging that these instructors are actually mercenaries from the Wagner group, known for their involvement in multiple conflict zones and allegations of human rights abuses.
