In a landmark decision, the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday convicted Al Hassan Ag Abdoul Aziz, a Malian militant, of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Al Hassan held a central role within the police force of Timbuktu during a rebel takeover in 2012.
The judges found that Al Hassan played a significant part in the Ansar Dine group, an organization that seized control of the historic city on the edge of the Sahara desert.
During their rule, Ansar Dine attempted to enforce sharia law, leading to widespread human rights abuses.
Local residents provided witness testimonies, describing Al Hassan as a key figure in the rebel police force. He reportedly issued orders that officers were bound to follow.
Presiding Judge Antoine Kesia-Mbe Mindua announced the verdict, stating, “Al Hassan has been found guilty by majority decision of war crimes and crimes against humanity.”
These charges included torture, cruel treatment, and acts intended to humiliate the population.
Notably, the court convicted Al Hassan for the public flogging of thirteen Timbuktu residents.
While Al Hassan pleaded not guilty to all charges, he acknowledged his affiliation with Ansar Dine.
His defense argued that he acted to maintain order during the chaotic period following the rebel takeover.
The court, however, found his actions constituted serious human rights violations. The sentencing for Al Hassan will be determined at a later date.
