Around 170 people were “executed” in attacks on three villages in northern Burkina Faso. The attacks occurred on February 25, targeting the villages of Komsilga, Nodin, and Soroe in Yatenga province. Survivors reported that women and young children were among the victims. Local security sources noted that these attacks were separate from other deadly incidents in the region.
Investigation and Response:
- Aly Benjamin Coulibaly, the regional public prosecutor, received reports of the attacks and initiated a provisional death count.
- An investigation has been ordered, and the public has been urged to provide any relevant information.
Context of Violence in Burkina Faso:
- Burkina Faso has been facing a jihadist insurgency since 2015, originating from neighboring Mali and led by groups affiliated with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.
- The insurgency has resulted in significant casualties, with almost 20,000 people killed and over two million displaced.
- The country’s instability has been exacerbated by its status as one of the world’s poorest nations situated in the Sahel region.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- When did the attacks on the villages in northern Burkina Faso occur?
- A) February 25
- B) February 24
- C) February 26
- D) February 27
- Answer: A) February 25
- How many villages were targeted in the attacks?
- A) One
- B) Two
- C) Three
- D) Four
- Answer: C) Three
- Who initiated the provisional death count for the attacks?
- A) Regional public prosecutor
- B) Local security sources
- C) Government officials
- D) Survivors of the attacks
- Answer: A) Regional public prosecutor
- What groups are responsible for the jihadist insurgency in Burkina Faso?
- A) Al-Qaeda only
- B) Islamic State group only
- C) Both Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group
- D) None of the above
- Answer: C) Both Al-Qaeda and Islamic State group
- What role did insecurity play in Burkina Faso in 2022?
- A) It led to military coups
- B) It resulted in peace negotiations
- C) It led to economic growth
- D) It caused political stability
- Answer: A) It led to military coups