The BBC's Mark Doyle, in Niono, says military patrols are being sent from there into Diabaly.

BBC: Mali conflict: France aiming for 'total reconquest'

There have also been reports of clashes in a town called Niono, about half-way between the two.

BBC: Africa

French troops have been pushing northwards and are now in the town of Niono, 50km (30 miles) south of Diabaly.

BBC: Mali conflict: France aiming for 'total reconquest'

In the Niono region, Malian soldiers killed two Malians of Tuareg origin.

CNN: Mali's famed Timbuktu without water, other services

Malian troops also killed two ethnic Tuaregs in the Niono region, and "other allegations of summary executions continue to come to us, " the group said.

NPR: Rights Group Warns Of Executions By Malian Army

There was fighting on the streets until 03:00 GMT on Friday, Diabaly Mayor Oumar Diakite said from nearby Niono - and Islamists were reported to be leaving the town.

BBC: Mali army 'regains Konna and Diabaly' from rebels

The group said it had confirmed that Malian forces have carried out numerous executions in the key conflict area between the north and south, particularly in the towns of Sevare, Mopti and Niono.

CNN: Mali's famed Timbuktu without water, other services