Malian Extremist Sentenced for War Crimes

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has sentenced Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz Ag Mohamed Ag Mahmoud, a former police chief in Timbuktu, Mali, to 10 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Al Hassan, linked to the al-Qaeda-affiliated Ansar Dine group, was convicted of torture, religious persecution, and inhumane acts during the group's control of Timbuktu in 2012. Despite evidence of rape and sexual slavery occurring under his rule, Al Hassan was acquitted of these charges due to lack of direct involvement. His conviction includes overseeing public amputations, brutal floggings, and maintaining prisoners in deplorable conditions. The court's decision reflects the international community's condemnation of these crimes and acknowledges the trauma inflicted on Timbuktu's population. Al Hassan's defense argued his actions were compelled by his role in the Islamic police, but this did not mitigate the court's ruling.