Jihadi Rebels Kill 132 Civilians In Central Mali

A recent attack by Jihadi rebels killed 132 civilians in central Mali. The attacks indicate that extremist violence is spreading from northern Mali to the more central areas. The government claimed the attacks were carried out by Jihadi rebels of the Katiba group. A U.N. peacekeeping mission began in Mali in 2013, so the country has seen constant conflict for a long period. France led the attempt to oust extremist rebels who had taken over cities and large towns in northern Mali. The mission has about 12,000 troops in Mali and 2,000 police and other officers. Unfortunately, 270 peacekeepers have died in Mali, the deadliest peacekeeping mission.

The head of the U.N. Mission to Mali, El-Ghassim Wane said, “Attacks on peacekeepers can constitute war crimes under international law.” He reaffirmed the mission’s commitment to supporting peace and security in Mali. A statement on Twitter said the U.N. Mission is concerned by “attacks against civilians in the Bandiagara region (the area of central Mali) perpetrated by extremist groups. These attacks have reportedly caused casualties and displacement of populations.”