Burkina Faso: Jihadists Intensify Attacks in Several Towns in the Country

Ouagadougou — The Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) is a jihadist group linked to al-Qaeda. They have increased attacks on military and civilian targets in Burkina Faso. This offensive began on May 11 with an assault on the Djibo military camp in Soum province. Reports indicate that jihadists took control of the camp and looted its facilities.

The attacks have spread to towns in northern, north-central, east-central, and southern regions. JNIM claims to have killed around sixty soldiers and a dozen paramilitaries from the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP). Local sources report about 20 civilian deaths as well. Many homes and health centers have also been destroyed. In Diapaga, jihadists captured a military camp, killed dozens of soldiers, seized weapons, and freed prisoners.

Images released by JNIM show fighters in military uniforms, some with Malian army insignia. The group opposes the governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Local authorities have not confirmed these events yet. However, a pact called the Patriotic Pact of Burkinabe Media (PPMB) was reportedly signed on May 14 in Ouagadougou.

The pact aims to support defense efforts through clear communication. It seeks to promote actions by Defense and Security Forces while strengthening civic education and social cohesion. The Council of Ministers announced plans for a new military college to train strategic leaders for national security challenges. Unverified reports suggest that around 700 North Korean special forces may be in Burkina Faso to assist the government.