Mauritania Strongly Condemns Killing of Its Citizens in Mali, Calls for Urgent Investigation
The Islamic Republic of Mauritania expresses its profound indignation and grave concern following the serious security incidents that recently occurred in Malian territory, near the border, resulting in the deaths of Mauritanian citizens.
In a statement received by the Mauritanian News Agency, the Government strongly condemns these unacceptable acts and reiterates that the protection of its citizens constitutes a red line.
Full Text of the Statement:
“The Islamic Republic of Mauritania expresses its profound indignation and grave concern following the serious security incidents that recently occurred in Malian territory, near the border, resulting in the deaths of Mauritanian citizens.
The Mauritanian Government condemns these unacceptable acts in the strongest terms and reiterates that the protection of its citizens remains a red line.
The Islamic Republic of Mauritania pays tribute to the victims of these tragic events. Among them, five have been formally identified as originating from the locality of ‘Sersar,’ in the commune of Ain Farba, within the Wilaya of Hodh El Gharbi:
- Alassane Mamadou Sow
- Mahmoud Abou Sily
- Yoro Abou Sow
- Hamdou Kandouro Ba
- Mahmoud Kandouro Ba
The Government prays to Almighty Allah to grant the deceased His infinite mercy and to welcome them into His Holy Paradise. It extends its deepest condolences to their families and reaffirms the solidarity of the Nation.
The Mauritanian Government solemnly calls upon the Malian authorities to put an end to these repeated abuses which, for the past four years, have targeted Mauritanians in Mali. It further urges them to fully assume their responsibilities by conducting prompt, credible, and transparent investigations to identify those responsible and to take all necessary measures to ensure the protection of civilians. The persistence of such acts engages their international responsibility.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, regional cooperation, and stability, Mauritania emphasizes that the security of its citizens is a fundamental requirement and reserves the right to take all appropriate measures in accordance with international law.
Furthermore, Mauritanian authorities call upon citizens—particularly those in border areas—to exercise the utmost vigilance and to refrain from entering Malian territory.
The Government of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania will continue to monitor the situation with the closest attention.”
Nouakchott, March 27, 2026