A popular TikTok influencer was tragically slain by suspected jihadists in a live broadcast while her family witnessed the horrific event.
Mariam Cisse, a 22-year-old with a large online following exceeding 100,000 supporters, was reportedly abducted from a small town in Mali’s Timbuktu region last week. Reports indicate that she was seized at a local fair in Tonka, with her captors alleging that she was aiding the Malian army by disclosing their movements online.
The military has been engaged in combat with jihadist factions since 2012. Currently, Mali faces a severe fuel blockade in its capital city, Bamako, imposed by a jihadist organization, leading to significant disruptions in daily life. Shortly after her abduction, she was transported by motorcycle to Independence Square.
In a chilling public display witnessed by numerous individuals, including her family, Mariam was brutally shot to death. The public execution has sent shockwaves through the nation as tensions escalate. State television reported that she was simply trying to promote her community and show support for the army through her social media postings.
Her tragic demise comes amidst deteriorating living conditions in Mali due to the ongoing blockade. Educational institutions such as schools and universities were forced to close last month due to the blockade. Authorities have pledged to take all necessary measures to resolve the crisis and reopen these institutions by the upcoming Monday.
Among the grief-stricken onlookers was Mariam’s brother, who confirmed to AFP news agency that she had been accused of collaborating with the Malian military. He recounted that she was apprehended by jihadists who accused her of disclosing their movements to the army.
Another source, speaking on anonymity due to safety concerns, described the killing as barbaric. Mariam often wore military-style attire in her videos to show solidarity with the Malian troops combating extremist groups. One of her posts was captioned “Vive Mali (Long Live Mali).”
The majority of Mariam’s online content depicted her ordinary life, showcasing her daily routines in her hometown, including her passion for dancing. Described as warm-hearted and genuine, she was beloved in her community for her honest videos.
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