Mali Tuareg Rebels Kill 32+ in Clashes with Malian Forces and Wagner Mercenaries Near Tinzaouatine

Jul 27, 2024, 07:20 PM

Mali's northern Tuareg rebels have reported significant clashes with Malian forces and Russian Wagner mercenaries near the Algerian border. The rebels claim to have killed and injured dozens of soldiers and Wagner mercenaries over two days of fighting. The Malian army acknowledged the loss of two soldiers and stated they had killed approximately 20 rebels. The clashes resulted in the capture of military equipment, including several MRAP armored vehicles and a Mi-24 helicopter. Footage from the scene shows over 32 corpses, primarily of Russian mercenaries, and a downed military helicopter. Local reports also indicate that Al-Qaeda’s JNIM was involved, targeting fleeing Russian forces. The fighting occurred near the towns of Tinzaouatine and Tinzawatene.