In M’berra, Mauritania, a shopkeeper named Ahmed has provided a harrowing account of his experiences involving Russian mercenaries in Mali, specifically operations linked to the Wagner group. He described witnessing the murder of two men in front of him and receiving threats of violence, including promises of dismemberment. Ahmed’s testimony is part of a broader collection of evidence concerning the violent tactics employed by Russian fighters in Mali’s counter-insurgency efforts against Islamist militants.
After a military coup in Mali in 2021, the junta shifted its reliance from French troops to Russian assistance, notably from the Wagner group, which was previously connected to the Kremlin. Although Wagner has since exited Mali, its operations have been succeeded by the Africa Corps, under the Russian Defense Ministry. Reports indicate that Wagner members shared graphic content related to their actions in an exclusive Telegram group before it was shut down earlier this year.
Ahmed, who has since fled to a refugee camp in Mauritania, detailed a traumatic encounter he endured after Wagner operatives accused his employer of collaborating with jihadists. Abducted from his store in Nampala, he was subjected to torture at a military base, including waterboarding. He reported being held alongside other detainees who had also been abused.
The conflict has led to nearly 50,000 people seeking refuge in M’berra, where many, including Ahmed, recount severe trauma linked to violence and torture. Witness accounts describe dire circumstances and repeated human rights violations occurring under both Wagner and the newly established Africa Corps.
The BBC has reached out to both the Russian and Malian defense ministries regarding these allegations but has yet to receive responses. The Sentry, an advocacy group, has highlighted the ongoing challenges within the Malian military under the influence of Wagner. As of June, Wagner declared its mission complete despite escalating violence, raising concerns about the future implications of its legacy through Africa Corps.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crmx7x3yjyko?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss