Alexander Efremov was one of two Russian prisoners captured alive by Tuareg rebels following a deadly desert battle that wiped out dozens of Wagner fighters in late July.

His brother Evgeny said Wagner had called to communicate his death. He posted the news this week on a Telegram chat group used by relatives of the mercenaries who participated in the battle to share information.

"Can you imagine the mental condition of Nike's wife after this call," Evgeny Efremov told the group, referring to his brother by his callsign.

Efremov did not respond to a request for comment. However, relatives of three other fighters who had been reported missing told Reuters they had received similar calls from Wagner.

--Reuters--