By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Jihadist groups in Burkina Faso have increased their brutal attacks on civilians, according to a report by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The violence, which includes door-to-door killings and attacks on Christian worshippers, has escalated despite efforts by the country’s military.
Over 6,000 deaths, including around 1,000 civilians, have been reported in the first eight months of 2024. The insurgents, including groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State, target communities for refusing to support them or collaborating with the military. HRW also highlights atrocities committed by Burkina Faso’s army during counter-insurgency operations.
A local witness, reflecting on an attack on churchgoers, said, “I saw a huge pool of blood and traces of blood all over the church, as well as bullet marks on the benches.” Despite Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s promises to improve security after seizing power, violence continues to escalate.
Source: BBC
