In a horrifying attack on Friday, approximately 60 civilians were killed and another 60 injured in the village of Karma near the border with Mali. According to survivors, more than 100 armed individuals on motorbikes and pick-up trucks raided the village. The attackers reportedly wore military uniforms, causing confusion among residents as they targeted dozens of men and young people.
A local resident named Amadou Ouedraogo reported that "the attackers arrived around noon and started shooting at everyone." He added that "many villagers tried to escape but were caught by gunfire."
As a result of this brutal assault, those wounded have been evacuated from Karma and are being treated at various health facilities within Burkina Faso. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident while also announcing plans for a "general mobilization" aimed at reclaiming territory lost to extremist groups such as al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS).
The military rulers' spokesperson, Colonel Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba said: "Our priority is to protect our citizens from these heinous acts perpetrated by terrorists who want nothing but chaos." He further emphasized their determination towards restoring safety in affected areas.
This latest act of violence highlights the ongoing unrest in Burkina Faso where over two million people have been displaced due to conflict since 2015. Aid agencies report that more than ten thousand lives have been claimed by these violent clashes between government forces and various militant factions.
Internationally renowned expert on African security issues Dr. Aminata Traoré expressed concern about regional instability: “These attacks not only affect Burkina Faso but also threaten peace across West Africa.” She urges international support for efforts focused on addressing root causes behind radicalization within communities affected by poverty, political marginalization, or historical grievances.
While authorities work tirelessly to secure borders against extremists spilling over from neighboring Mali, the people of Burkina Faso mourn their losses and hope for an end to this ongoing cycle of violence.