Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-02-26 17:26:01
At least 15 Catholic worshippers were tragically killed in a village in Burkina Faso on a Sunday when gunmen launched a violent attack on the community as they gathered for prayers in the conflict-ridden northern region of the country. Church officials confirmed that the violence, which took place in the village of Essakane, was a terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of 12 Catholic faithful at the scene, with three others succumbing to their injuries while receiving treatment later on. Abbot Jean-Pierre Sawadogo, vicar-general of the Catholic Diocese of Dori where the attack occurred, issued a statement providing these details.
The perpetrators of the attack remain unidentified as no group has claimed responsibility for the tragic incident. However, suspicion points to jihadist groups that have frequently targeted remote communities and security forces in the northern region of Burkina Faso. In response to the attack, Sawadogo urged individuals to pray for those who lost their lives in the faith, for the recovery of the wounded, and for the conversion of those who continue to perpetrate acts of violence and devastation in the country.
Burkina Faso has been severely impacted by the activities of jihadist groups, with approximately half of the country falling outside government control due to ongoing conflicts. These extremist fighters have caused widespread destruction, resulting in the deaths of thousands and the displacement of over 2 million people, posing a significant threat to the stability of the nation that has already experienced two coups in 2022.
In light of the challenges posed by the junta governing the country following the coup in January 2022, efforts to restore peace in volatile areas have been challenging. The report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies in August revealed a sharp increase in the number of individuals killed by jihadists since the first coup, nearly tripling compared to the previous 18 months. The security situation in Burkina Faso is further complicated by the porous borders it shares with Mali and Niger, both of which are also governed by juntas and are grappling with their own security crises.
Overall, the recent attack in Essakane highlights the ongoing threats posed by extremist groups in Burkina Faso and the urgent need for effective measures to restore peace and security in the country. The violence and loss of life underscore the devastating impact of terrorism on communities and the importance of international cooperation in combating these threats.
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