UN human rights experts on April 30 condemned the enforced disappearance and apparent summary execution of some 100 individuals in Mali. The experts stated that the unlawful killings and disappearances may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity.
The experts found that the Malian authorities have violated the right to life by failing to conduct proper investigations. The statement urged “Malian authorities to conduct prompt, effective, thorough, independent, impartial and transparent investigations into these killings and enforced disappearances, in accordance with international law.”
Last month, several dozen bodies were discovered near the Kwala military camp in the Koulikoro region. These are suspected to be the remains of individuals who were arrested in Sebabougou village on April 12, when approximately 100 individuals from Peul (Fulani) community were detained by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and Russian Wagner Group mercenaries, and some 60 were taken to the Kwala camp.
FAMa confirmed that military operations were conducted between April 11 and 15 in several areas including Sebabougou and Kwala. The experts emphasized:
Malian authorities must ensure that the bodies of the deceased are properly recovered, documented and protected to facilitate reliable identification, and prevent the victims from being classified as missing persons. The bodies must then be handed over respectfully to their families for mourning and final disposal.
The experts further stressed the importance of conducting effective investigations and ensuring accountability, and providing effective remedies for human rights violation in fulfilling Mali’s international legal obligations.
Also April 30, Amnesty International warned of a growing trend of enforced disappearancesbeing used as a means of repression for the military regimes in West Africa. Amnesty confirmed that military authorities have resorted to enforced disappearances and unlawful detentions to silence dissenting voices.
From JURIST, May 2. Used with permission. Internal links added.
Map: PCL
