Multiple women have accused members of a new Russian military unit operating in Mali of rape and other sexual assaults, according to an Associated Press investigation that sheds light on widespread but largely hidden abuses in the country’s protracted conflict.

The allegations involve Africa Corps, a Russian force that earlier this year replaced the Wagner mercenary group and is assisting Mali’s military in operations against extremist groups. Refugees who fled to neighboring Mauritania told the AP they survived or witnessed sexual violence, including attempted rape and abductions, allegedly committed by fighters they described as “white men.” Victims and their families spoke anonymously, citing fear of retaliation.

One reported victim was a 14-year-old girl treated for a severe infection linked to sexual assault. In other accounts, women described armed men entering homes, undressing them and threatening violence. One mother said she saw her 18-year-old daughter dragged away by armed men and has not seen her since.

The U.N. and aid groups say sexual violence has been committed by all sides in Mali’s conflict, including extremist groups such as al-Qaida-linked JNIM. A women’s health clinic in central Mali reported treating 28 women in six months who said they were assaulted by militants.

Abuses remain under-reported due to stigma, fear of reprisals and lack of access to medical care. Aid workers warn this silence hinders accountability and deepens trauma among survivors.

Similar accusations were previously leveled against Wagner mercenaries. In a 2023 report, the U.N. documented dozens of rapes during a deadly operation in Moura village, after which Mali expelled the U.N. peacekeeping mission, making independent investigations more difficult.

As fighting intensifies, more than 150,000 Malians have fled to Mauritania. Aid agencies say many survivors never seek help, despite growing humanitarian needs along the border.