Mali eight civilians killed in africa corps airstrikes human rights watch reports

Human Rights Watch has documented the deaths of eight civilians, including three children, in airstrikes conducted by the Russian-backed Africa Corps in central Mali. The strikes, which took place on June 15 in the village of Kyrnia, reportedly targeted what the paramilitary group described as a jihadist gathering point. However, no evidence has emerged linking any of the victims to armed groups.

Civilian casualties in Kyrnia village

According to Human Rights Watch, a Sukhoi Su-24 aircraft deployed at least two munitions over the village of Kyrnia in the Mopti region. The first strike struck the village chief’s residence, killing his wife and three children. The second targeted a nearby livestock market, resulting in four additional fatalities and multiple injuries. The NGO emphasized that none of the victims were affiliated with any armed group.

Africa Corps claims military objective

The Africa Corps, which collaborates with Malian armed forces in counterterrorism operations, asserted that the strikes targeted a gathering place for extremist factions. While witnesses reported the presence of members of the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM) in the village at the time, Human Rights Watch found no evidence to suggest that the civilians killed were involved in hostilities.