A new report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Burkina Faso’s military and allied militias of killing at least 130 civilians—mostly women, children, and the elderly—belonging to the Fulani ethnic group near the western town of Solenzo in March.
According to HRW, the mass killings occurred during a military campaign targeting insurgents but led to widespread civilian deaths and displacement. The report also states that an Al-Qaeda-linked group, Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimin, retaliated with attacks on villages suspected of supporting the military.
Also Read: At Least 40 Civilians Killed In Burkina Faso Attack, Says UN
Eyewitnesses and survivors described drone surveillance and coordinated strikes by military helicopters and a pro-government militia, the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland. Thousands reportedly fled to neighboring Mali, facing gunfire and attacks along the way.
HRW is calling for an impartial investigation and prosecution of those responsible, while the Burkinabe government has yet to officially respond to the report.
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