Burkina Faso’s Military Massacred At Least 56 Children, Over 160 Other Villagers In Revenge Attack, Says Human Rights Watch
The Burkina Faso military is accused of summarily executing at least 223 civilians, including 56 children, in Nondin and Soro villages in February 2024, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). These killings are believed to be part of a wider military campaign against civilians suspected of collaborating with Islamist armed groups, potentially constituting crimes against humanity.
HRW has called for an urgent and impartial investigation into the massacres, emphasizing the importance of international support to ensure credibility. Interviews conducted by HRW with witnesses and survivors, along with verification of videos and photographs, support these claims.
The military’s actions followed attacks by Islamist groups on military and civilian targets across the country, prompting the Defense Minister to denounce coordinated attacks by militants. However, there was no mention of the civilian massacres in his statement.
The prosecutor of the high court in Ouahigouya acknowledged reports of deadly attacks on the villages but was unable to locate the reported bodies during an investigation visit. Villagers recount that the military accused them of collaborating with jihadists before opening fire.
RTB, the government-run television network, reported a military operation against fleeing fighters but made no reference to civilian casualties. Witnesses describe military convoys arriving in the villages and systematically rounding up and shooting civilians, regardless of age or gender.
Survivors compiled lists of victims, with bodies buried in mass graves in both villages. Some bodies were individually buried later when discovered in the surrounding area.
In summary, the Burkina Faso military stands accused of committing grave human rights abuses, targeting civilians in retaliation for suspected collaboration with Islamist groups. HRW’s call for an independent investigation underscores the urgency and seriousness of the situation, with international support deemed essential for accountability and justice.
Sahara Reporters
