At least 100 villagers and soldiers were killed in central Burkina Faso during a weekend attack by al-Qaida-linked jihadis. The assault on Barsalogho, 80 kilometers from the capital, was described by regional experts as one of the deadliest of the year.
The attackers, affiliated with the al-Qaida-linked JNIM group, targeted villagers who were helping security forces build defensive trenches. Al-Qaida claimed responsibility, stating they took control of a militia position in Barsalogho.
Videos of the attack showed numerous bodies and the scene was reviewed by the Associated Press, though the exact casualty count could not be independently verified. Burkina Faso’s security minister reported that both soldiers and civilians were among the casualties, and the government has responded with increased support and protection efforts.
The escalating violence has resulted in significant parts of Burkina Faso being outside government control, contributing to two coups in 2022. The junta, despite seeking new security partnerships, continues to struggle against the increasing jihadi attacks.