At least 10 civilians were killed in central Mali after military drone strikes hit villagers preparing for a traditional mass wedding, according to reports by AFP published via Channels Television.

The attack happened in the Tene locality in the San region on Sunday, turning what residents described as a celebration into mourning. Local sources told AFP that those killed were among villagers making final preparations for the community wedding event.

A resident, speaking anonymously to AFP, said 10 young people died in the strike, adding that the village had been expecting a joyful occasion before the tragedy unfolded.

Security sources cited by AFP said the military targeted a procession of motorbikes travelling in formation, which may have drawn the attention of surveillance drones. A local elected official also confirmed the death toll, saying the strike hit shortly before the wedding ceremony.

The incident comes as Mali’s military government faces growing instability after a wave of coordinated attacks in late April by jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and separatist forces. The offensive targeted key northern towns and reportedly killed the country’s defence minister.

The violence has intensified around northern regions including Kidal, where separatist groups from the Azawad Liberation Front and allied militants have seized control of several towns. The capital, Bamako, has also reportedly been affected by a blockade.

Mali has faced prolonged insecurity since 2012, with armed groups linked to al-Qaeda, the Islamic State, separatist factions and criminal networks fuelling conflict across large parts of the country.