HRW Links Burkina Faso Militias to Massacre Amid Government Denial

Human Rights Watch reports that pro-junta militias in Burkina Faso are linked to a massacre, resulting in numerous civilian deaths. While the government denies these claims, arguing they were combating terrorists, HRW emphasizes accountability concerns. The incident underscores the challenges facing the region amid an ongoing insurgency and rising human rights violations.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has reported that militias aligned with Burkina Faso’s military junta are connected to a recent massacre in western Burkina Faso, which left numerous individuals dead. Footage shared on social media reveals armed individuals in militia uniforms participating in the violence. HRW noted that 58 people, including women and children, appeared dead or dying in the videos, although the total number of casualties may be greater due to the condition of the bodies.

In response to the allegations, government spokesperson Pingdwende Gilbert Ouedraogo described the social media images as a “disinformation campaign” aimed at disrupting societal unity. He argued that the militias and military forces were engaged in combat with terrorists when they encountered civilians that had allegedly been used as human shields, claiming they “neutralized” approximately 100 criminals during the operation.

HRW indicated that the victims are believed to be ethnic Fulani, a group the authorities suspect of supporting extremist factions linked to al Qaeda and the Islamic State. Ilaria Allegrozzi, a senior Sahel researcher at HRW, emphasized that the incident highlighted the pervasive lack of accountability for these armed forces. Allegrozzi stated that the violence persists amidst an ongoing armed conflict exacerbating the suffering of the local population.

This violent event occurred around the city of Solenzo on March 10 and 11, as the Sahel region continues to grapple with a jihadist insurgency that has expanded over the past 13 years. The military regime, which took control in a coup in 2022, faces international scrutiny for its controversial security measures, with HRW and Amnesty International alleging numerous human rights violations. Despite these accusations, the junta and the military have consistently denied any wrongdoing in civilian abuses.

In summary, the report by Human Rights Watch indicates a grave situation in Burkina Faso, where pro-junta militias are implicated in a massacre that resulted in significant civilian casualties. The government rejects these claims as disinformation, insisting on the legitimacy of its military operations. As the conflict in the region escalates, criticisms surrounding human rights violations continue, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and protection of civilians amidst the prevailing violence.

Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za