Hundred civilians were killed by armed groups in the village of Sobane in central Mali. On the same day, some 20 people were killed during an attack in the commune of Arbinda, in northern Burkina Faso.s

“We offer our condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the people and governments of Mali and Burkina Faso. These abuses against populations may constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. Investigations must be conducted immediately and the perpetrators brought to justice as soon as possible” reads the statement of the spokesperson of the European External Action Service.

“In the face of this rise in violence against civilians, it is urgent that the Malian and Burkinabe authorities redouble their efforts to ensure the protection of the population and engage in the implementation of processes of dialogue and reconciliation with the population. all communities. A process of disarmament and the dismantling of all the militias and self-defense groups operating in these areas must also be urgently undertaken.”

The European Union will continue to support Mali and Burkina Faso and stand alongside the entire Sahel region to contribute to peace, security and the satisfaction of people’s needs”.

Image above: Sahel village (illustration)

Image below: Sabane-Kou village on map.