Human Rights Watch has accused Burkina Faso’s government of unnecessarily endangering civilians during a deadly militant attack in August. At least 133 people, including dozens of children, were killed when fighters from the Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin group attacked villagers in Barsalogho commune.
The victims were reportedly forced to dig trenches for security outposts when militants opened fire. The attack occurred 80 kilometers from the capital Ouagadougou, with at least 200 people injured.
JNIM, which claimed responsibility, stated all targeted villagers were militia members affiliated with Burkina Faso.
Witnesses reported that military forces coerced male residents into digging trenches through threats and beatings, despite residents’ fears of attacks. The country’s justice minister denied these allegations, stating forced labor is illegal.
The incident highlights growing concerns about the military government’s reliance on civilian auxiliaries in fighting militants. About half of Burkina Faso remains outside government control as militant attacks increase, with thousands killed and over 2 million displaced.
The violence contributed to two coups in 2022, yet the military junta continues struggling to secure the country despite new partnerships with Russia and other Sahel nations.