Mali: 54 bodies discovered in a camp, ISIS implicated

A massacre of civilians has been reported in the Ménaka region of Mali. Fifty-four bodies were discovered in a camp located approximately 35 kilometers southeast of the town. The Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS) is implicated in the killings, according to initial reports gathered by the Malian army.

In a statement seen by Seneweb, the General Staff of the Armed Forces indicates that a joint patrol of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and their partners was deployed on the ground following reports of a terrorist attack against civilian populations in the operational sub-sector of Ménaka.

During their search, the military reported discovering the 54 bodies in a camp in Tagadayat. The victims were buried on site. Nine survivors were also found and then evacuated to the town of Ménaka, where they received care from the relevant authorities.

Enhanced security measures

In its statement, the General Staff of the Armed Forces strongly condemns this massacre committed against civilians. In response to this massacre, the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) affirm that they have reinforced protection measures for the most vulnerable populations. The Malian army specifies that patrols and security operations are continuing in the Ménaka operational sub-sector.

The army reaffirms its determination to prosecute the perpetrators of these crimes so that they may be held accountable for their actions in accordance with the law. It assures that it will continue its operations to secure the national territory in order to protect people and their property.