An armed group linked to al-Qaeda, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), claimed responsibility for a devastating attack in central Burkina Faso that resulted in up to 200 deaths and at least 140 injuries. The assault occurred in the region of Barsalogho, located about 40 kilometers north of Kaya, a town considered strategically vital as it is home to the last remaining force protecting the capital, Ouagadougou. The attackers targeted teams digging protective trenches, turning these into mass graves as they opened fire. Several soldiers are missing, and the attackers seized weapons and a military ambulance.
Despite prior warnings, the Burkina Faso army, which had lost control of much of its territory to armed groups, urged civilians to dig these trenches as a desperate measure. The attack underscores the worsening security situation, even as the government, having severed ties with Western allies like France, seeks help from Russian mercenaries. The proximity of these attacks to the capital highlights the increasing threat posed by armed groups, which have caused significant loss of life and displacement across the country for over a decade. The town of Barsalogho, close to Kaya, is a significant focus due to its strategic location in this ongoing conflict.

Type of Data Point - News or Reportage

Up to 200 people killed in attack in central Burkina Faso - Al Jazeera

Visit page of City/Town - Barsalogho

Inserted: 01-09-2024 14:09:22