In Burkina Faso, at least 53 members of the security forces were killed in a clash with rebel fighters in the northern part of the country. This incident occurred during an operation in Koumbri commune, Yatenga province, where security forces were deployed to facilitate the return of residents who had been displaced by fighters over two years ago. The army has condemned the attack and vowed to pursue the remaining terrorists responsible. Additionally, dozens of rebel fighters were reportedly killed, and their equipment destroyed. Burkina Faso has been grappling with ongoing attacks linked to ISIS and al-Qaeda-affiliated militants, resulting in thousands of casualties, over two million displaced individuals, and severe food shortages. Roughly half of the country remains beyond government control. The recent attack is one of the deadliest since Captain Ibrahim Traore's seizure of power in the country's second coup in late September. The violence has escalated significantly since the first coup in January 2022, with a notable increase in civilian casualties. The situation has left Burkina Faso on the brink of collapse, with extremist activities spreading and numerous towns blockaded, hindering access to essential resources for nearly one million people.

Type of Data Point - News or Reportage

At least 53 Burkina Faso soldiers, volunteers killed in clashes with rebels - AlJazeera

Visit page of City/Town - Koumbri

Inserted: 08-09-2023 22:09:20