Multiple fatalities reported in new wave of violence in central Mali, according to authorities

A fresh surge of violence perpetrated by jihadist fighters in central Mali has resulted in the deaths of dozens of people, according to local and security sources who spoke on Saturday, confirming the devastating impact of Friday's attacks.

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Responsibility for the attacks on Friday has been claimed by the Al-Qaeda-linked Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims, known as JNIM, which had already been responsible for the deaths of at least 30 people in village attacks on Wednesday.

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A local official has reported that the recent attacks by armed groups have now pushed the death toll to over 70 in the past few days alone, highlighting the escalating violence in the region.

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Another local official has provided a slightly higher figure, estimating the death toll to be around 80, further underscoring the severity of the situation.

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A local youth leader expressed outrage and despair, stating "our hearts are bleeding" and criticizing nearby army detachments for failing to provide assistance despite receiving multiple pleas for help.

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A security source has described the current situation in the region as "worrying", citing the deliberate targeting of villages by JNIM that have refused to sign local agreements.

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JNIM's actions come on the heels of a joint operation with the Tuareg-dominated Azawad Liberation Front, or FLA, which launched an unprecedented attack against Mali's ruling junta last month.

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Since the attack, the security situation in Mali has become increasingly critical, with several areas in the north now under the control of armed groups, according to reports.