Mali’s army has carried out a “series of summary executions” as it fights to recapture the Islamist-controlled north, a rights group has said.

The International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) said some people were killed simply because they did not have identity documents.

A Malian army officer was quoted as denying the allegations.

Meanwhile, the UN says 7,100 civilians have fled to neighbouring states since 10 January to escape fighting.

France intervened militarily on 11 January to halt a militant advance.

It said al-Qaeda linked Islamists – some of whom were foreigners – threatened to turn Mali into a “terrorist state”.

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Other allegations of summary executions continue to come from all areas of the west and centre of the country”

IFHR statement

It has bombed suspected rebel positions and deployed about 2,000 troops to help the weak Malian army recapture territory. . .