Mali military reports 54 dead after attacks in northeast

Mali's armed forces say the death toll from attacks on camps in the country's northeastern Menaka region has risen to 54, after six more bodies were discovered.

The attacks occurred last weekend when armed men on motorcycles reportedly opened fire on camps mainly occupied by members of the Daoussahak community.

A military patrol later found 54 bodies at a camp in the Tagadayat area, the armed forces said. Nine survivors were evacuated to the city of Menaka, while the victims were buried at the site.

The military attributed the attack to the Sahel branch of the Islamic State group, citing testimonies from the area.

The camps are located about 50 kilometers from Menaka town, near the village of Tinabow and the Tagadayat area.

A security source in Gao previously told AFP that the killings could have been in retaliation for recent military operations and attacks by the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad, a group originating from the Daoussahak community and aligned with Mali's ruling junta.

Security patrols and operations are continuing in the region.

Mali has faced a prolonged security crisis since 2012, involving separatist movements and criminal gangs.