Civilians wave the Malian national flag as they protest against the lack of transparency of the presidential election’s campaign, on June 2, 2018 in Bamako. Michele CATTANI / AFP
More than 40 civilians have been killed in attacks by armed men on several camps in Mali’s northeastern Menaka region.
Security and community sources say the attackers arrived on motorcycles and targeted camps mainly occupied by members of the Daoussahak community, about 50 kilometres from the town of Menaka.
The Daoussahak community’s executive bureau says 48 civilians were killed in the Tagadayat area and blamed the attack on the Islamic State group.
Other local and security sources reported more than 50 deaths, including women, young people and the elderly.
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Witnesses say the attackers opened fire on residents and set homes ablaze, forcing survivors to flee towards Menaka.
A security source says the attack may have been carried out in retaliation for recent military operations and attacks by the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad, MSA, which is aligned with the government in Bamako.
The Malian army says it conducted an operation in the area a day earlier, targeting what it described as a major base housing terrorist elements and military equipment.
Mali has faced a prolonged security crisis since 2012, involving jihadist groups, separatist movements and other armed groups.
