"An attack on a village in Bankass in Mopti, central Mali, has reportedly killed more than 130 people. UNICEF is deeply saddened and outraged that children are among the casualties.

"Many of the injured children have been evacuated to health facilities for treatment. UNICEF is on the ground helping provide first aid, medicines and therapeutic food.

"Mali's children are paying the highest price for the intensifying violence in central Mali. Since 2017, rising insecurity has led to an increase in the killing, maiming and recruitment of children. Gender-based violence is on the rise.

"Children are also increasingly deprived of education and essential health care as violence is causing schools to close and compromising access to health centers.

"UNICEF urges all parties to put an immediate end to the violence and to keep children out of harm's way. Children's right to protection from all forms of violence should be upheld at all times."