The Wagner Group’s operations in Mali have caused significant tensions within the country’s army and military government, leading to security lapses and failing to yield any mining concessions.
According to a report by investigative research group The Sentry, Wagner fighters often operated outside the chain of command, using army equipment and carrying out security operations without permission or prior notice.
This led to losses of equipment, vehicles, and personnel, and in some cases, left Malian soldiers without the necessary equipment to fight insurgent attacks.
Malian soldiers have expressed resentment towards the Russian mercenaries, who received preferential treatment, including medical evacuations limited to those with fuel scarcity.
The report suggests that the arrangement has only worsened relations between the military and the mercenaries.
Despite Wagner’s announcement to depart in June, Africa Corps, a Kremlin-controlled paramilitary force made up of around 70-80% former Wagner mercenaries, has stated it will stay on in Mali.
The tensions within the Malian military have been further highlighted by the arrest of over 30 soldiers and military officers accused of attempting to destabilize the military government.
Investigators believe these arrests followed discussions among military personnel about grievances related to the treatment of Malian troops by Wagner and Africa Corps.
President Assimi Goita reportedly blocked Wagner from obtaining mining licenses or concessions as payment, and instead, relations between the military and the mercenaries have deteriorated over time.
