A soldier from the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) was reportedly killed by Russian mercenaries affiliated with the Wagner Group in the town of Ippy on Monday.

According to French news site Corbeau News Centrafrique, the soldier, whose identity has not been disclosed, was allegedly subjected to severe torture before succumbing to his injuries. 

The exact circumstances leading to the event remain unclear but according to African news outlet HumAngle, the soldier was out drinking with friends when he was arrested by Russian mercenaries, who accused him of being intoxicated and a threat to security. 

The outlet reported that the soldier’s remains were flown out to Bangui to ease high tensions among locals in Ippy. 

Central African Republic (CAR) authorities are yet to issue a statement about the incident.

The Wagner Group’s presence in CAR dates back to 2018, following agreements with the CAR government to assist in combating rebel factions and stabilizing the nation. 

Since their deployment, Wagner operatives have been involved in various military operations alongside FACA, aiming to reclaim territories controlled by insurgents. However, their involvement has been marred by numerous reports of human rights abuses and violent confrontations.

The recent incident in Ippy was not isolated. Similar reports have emerged from other African nations where Wagner operates. 

In Mali, tensions between Wagner operatives and the Malian Armed Forces over operational control and resource allocation have led to clashes, resulting in casualties on both sides. 

The European Union has earlier imposed sanctions against the group for “human rights abuses” in countries like the Central African Republic, Sudan, and Mali.