Mali: At least 49 civilians reported dead in attack on river boat

Islamist militants have attacked a river boat in north-eastern Mali, killing at least 49 civilians, the interim government says.

They also reportedly attacked an army camp, killing 15 soldiers, while around 50 militants are said to have died.

The government has declared three days of national mourning.

The Islamist threat has been growing despite claims by the military that Russian Wagner Group mercenaries are turning the tide of their campaign.

The northern city of Timbuktu has been under blockade since the end of last month and there have been several other recent attacks on transport.

The BBC could not independently verify the government's latest report, which was read out on national TV.