- Al-Qaida-linked jihadists carried out a devastating attack in central Burkina Faso
- The attackers specifically targeted villagers
- The incident is part of a broader trend of increasing violence in Burkina Faso
A brutal attack by al-Qaida-linked jihadists in central Burkina Faso has resulted in the deaths of at least 100 villagers and soldiers.
The assault on Barsalogho, a town near the capital, has been described as one of the deadliest incidents of the year in the region.
The attackers, affiliated with the JNIM group, targeted civilians assisting the military in constructing defensive fortifications. Al-Qaida claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that they had seized control of a militia position in Barsalogho.
Graphic videos of the attack, which have been reviewed by the Associated Press, depict numerous casualties. While the exact number of fatalities remains uncertain, the Burkina Faso government has confirmed that both soldiers and civilians were killed.
In response, the government has pledged to increase support and protection efforts in the affected region.
The escalating violence in Burkina Faso has led to significant portions of the country falling outside of government control, contributing to two military coups in 2022.
Despite seeking new security partnerships, the junta continues to face challenges in combating the increasing jihadi attacks.
