Islamist terrorists have killed over 150 people, including 22 Christians, in an “unprecedented” attack on Burkina Faso civilians.
On Friday, 24th August, over 100 jihadists launched a coordinated attack on the town of Barsalogho, according to reports from Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN).
The recent massacre claimed the lives of women, children, and elderly people, marking an escalation in the violence that has plagued the country for nine years.
Conflict between Islamist rebels and the Burkina Faso government began in 2015 with with attacks by various jihadist factions linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS escalating the violence. The insurgency has led to the deaths of over 10,000 people and the displacement of millions more.
Bishop Théophile Nare of Kaya described the recent attack as a "tragedy of unprecedented proportions" and has announced a day of mourning for 28th August.
He has also urged three days of intensive prayer to seek “reparation for all attacks on human life”.
“This attack is a stark reminder of the ongoing terror faced by our communities,” Bishop Nare said in a statement. “I urge you to hold onto hope and commit to penance and conversion so that we may find solace and strength from God.”
This recent attack follows two other violent incidents in the West African country within the past month. On 4th August 4th, gunmen abducted over 100 individuals in the Boucle du Mouhoun Region, and another assault in the same area on 20th August led to further displacements.
ACN, which has supported 76 projects in Burkina Faso over the past year, continues its efforts to aid the Church and assist those affected by Islamist violence.
