Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Burkina Faso’s military of massacring at least 223 villagers, including 56 children, in two villages on February 25th. The killings, which took place in Nondin and Soro villages in the northern Yatenga province, are described by HRW as “among the worst army abuse in Burkina Faso since 2015.”
Burkina Faso has been battling an insurgency since 2015, with thousands of civilians, soldiers, and police killed in the conflict. HRW alleges the killings may be part of a wider campaign targeting civilians suspected of collaborating with insurgents and could constitute crimes against humanity.
The report details interviews with witnesses and survivors, alongside verified photos and videos depicting the aftermath of the killings.
Burkina Faso’s military and government officials have not commented on the allegations. However, local media reported that an investigation was launched after a prosecutor received reports of “massive deadly attacks” on the villages. The prosecutor’s report mentions a provisional death toll of “around 170 people executed” but does not confirm specific details.
Survivors claim soldiers accused them of collaborating with fighters before opening fire. This aligns with the prosecutor’s suggestion that the killings may have been a retaliation for an earlier attack by fighters on a military camp near the villages.
HRW is urging the international community to support a credible investigation into the alleged crimes and provide crucial humanitarian aid to the region. The escalating violence and civilian casualties highlight the urgent need for solutions that address the root causes of the insurgency and ensure the protection of civilians.