The United Nations peacekeeping force in&nbsp;Mali&nbsp;has&nbsp;deployed&nbsp;two units to the African country's tri-border area with Burkina Faso and Niger to respond to a&nbsp;spate&nbsp;of civilian&nbsp;killings, it said on Thursday.

A surge in attacks since early March by an Islamic State affiliate has left hundreds of civilians dead, according to official and military sources. The region has long been a hotspot of jihadist and militia violence in West Africa.

"The security situation in the Tri-border area... particularly in the localities of Tessit, Talataye, Ansongo and the Menaka region, has deteriorated considerably in recent weeks," said the&nbsp;U.N. peacekeeping mission, MINUSMA.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-27-killed-33-wounded-in-militant-attack-in-central-mali-459152">At least 27 killed, 33 wounded in militant attack in central Mali</a>

MINUSMA&nbsp;deployed&nbsp;one unit to the area over a week ago and was in the process of deploying another on Thursday, it said, adding that the attacks have resulted in "dozens of deaths".

Civilians have been targeted during a cycle of reprisal attacks between ethnic Tuareg militia groups, including the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad (MSA), and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), according to MSA and local sources.

At least 500 civilians have been killed in the last three weeks in the regions of Gao and Menaka, said a military source, requesting anonymity because he was not authorised to speak.

A government official in Gao region said about 200 civilians were killed in the commune of Talataye between March 21 and 25, and thousands more displaced.

"We are expecting to be assassinated at any moment," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity for security reasons.

Mali's army conducted airstrikes in the Menaka region on March 13, which it said helped break the momentum of "terrorist groups". It has not given a death toll from the fighting.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mali-army-says-8-soldiers-killed-nearly-60-terrorists-neutralised-454750">&nbsp;Mali army says 8 soldiers killed, nearly 60 'terrorists neutralised'</a>

Mali&nbsp;has faced instability since 2012, when Islamists hijacked an ethnic Tuareg rebellion in the north. French troops intervened to push them out of the cities they occupied, but they have since regrouped and spread across the Sahel region.

Mali's army has also been accused of killing civilians. A coalition of Tuareg groups on Wednesday issued a list of 17 people it said were arrested and executed by soldiers last weekend in the town of Ansongo.

A spokesman for the army did not respond to calls from Reuters. The army said in a statement on March 29 that it was investigating allegations of human rights abuses in the area and reinforcing protection of civilians in Menaka and Gao.

The army has faced similar accusations by the United Nations and human rights groups, and has in some cases acknowledged that its forces were implicated in executions.

Watch |&nbsp;Mali asks France to expedite pulling out of troops from country

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The United Nations peacekeeping force in Mali has deployed two units to the African country's tri-border area with Burkina Faso and Niger to respond to a spate of civilian killings, it said on Thursday.

The United Nations peacekeeping force in Mali has deployed two units to the African country's tri-border area with Burkina Faso and Niger to respond to a spate of civilian killings, it said on Thursday. A surge in attacks since early March by an Islamic State affiliate has left hundreds of civilians dead, according to official and military sources. The region has long been a hotspot of jihadist and militia violence in West Africa. "The security situation in the Tri-border area... particularly in the localities of Tessit, Talataye, Ansongo and the Menaka region, has deteriorated considerably in recent weeks," said the U.N. peacekeeping mission, MINUSMA. Also read | At least 27 killed, 33 wounded in militant attack in central Mali MINUSMA deployed one unit to the area over a week ago and was in the process of deploying another on Thursday, it said, adding that the attacks have resulted in "dozens of deaths". Civilians have been targeted during a cycle of reprisal attacks between ethnic Tuareg militia groups, including the Movement for the Salvation of Azawad (MSA), and the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), according to MSA and local sources. At least 500 civilians have been killed in the last three weeks in the regions of Gao and Menaka, said a military source, requesting anonymity because he was not authorised to speak. A government official in Gao region said about 200 civilians were killed in the commune of Talataye between March 21 and 25, and thousands more displaced. "We are expecting to be assassinated at any moment," he said, speaking on condition of anonymity for security reasons. Mali's army conducted airstrikes in the Menaka region on March 13, which it said helped break the momentum of "terrorist groups". It has not given a death toll from the fighting. Also read | Mali army says 8 soldiers killed, nearly 60 'terrorists neutralised' Mali has faced instability since 2012, when Islamists hijacked an ethnic Tuareg rebellion in the north. French troops intervened to push them out of the cities they occupied, but they have since regrouped and spread across the Sahel region. Mali's army has also been accused of killing civilians. A coalition of Tuareg groups on Wednesday issued a list of 17 people it said were arrested and executed by soldiers last weekend in the town of Ansongo. A spokesman for the army did not respond to calls from Reuters. The army said in a statement on March 29 that it was investigating allegations of human rights abuses in the area and reinforcing protection of civilians in Menaka and Gao. The army has faced similar accusations by the United Nations and human rights groups, and has in some cases acknowledged that its forces were implicated in executions. Watch | Mali asks France to expedite pulling out of troops from country

UN peacekeepers deployed to northeastern Mali amid spate of killings

Made of out clay, laterite, & other local building materials, here’s the Opera Village in Africa. The village was designed by Burkina Faso-born architect Francis Kere. The village was built on 20 hectares of granite plateau. The Opera village is shaped like a spiral. The village has 26 buildings including workshops, health center, guest houses & a school.

Inside ‘Opera Village’ in Africa’s Burkina Faso

Burkina&nbsp;Faso strongman Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was&nbsp;inaugurated&nbsp;as&nbsp;president&nbsp;on Wednesday, just over three weeks after he led a coup to topple elected head of state Roch Marc Christian Kabore.

In a televised ceremony, Damiba swore an oath before the country's top constitutional body to "preserve, respect, uphold and defend the Constitution", the nation's laws and a "fundamental act" of key decisions approved by the&nbsp;junta.

Damiba was dressed in camouflage uniform and a red beret, and wore a sash in the colours of&nbsp;Burkina's national flag.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-diplomats-say-they-would-help-junta-vow-to-restore-security-450574">Burkina Faso: Diplomats say they would help junta, vow to 'restore security'</a>

The press, but no foreign representatives, attended the ceremony in a small room at the offices of the Constitutional Council.

On January 24, Damiba,&nbsp;41, led disgruntled officers to force out Kabore following public anger over his handling of a bloody jihadist insurgency.

Last week, the Constitutional Council formally determined that Damiba was&nbsp;president, head of state and supreme commander of the armed forces.

The move confirmed an announcement by the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;on January 31 that Damiba would be appointed to those roles for a transitional period, and be assisted by two vice presidents.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-suspends-burkina-faso-junta-says-constitution-restored-449334">African Union suspends Burkina Faso; junta says constitution restored</a>

The&nbsp;junta&nbsp;suspended the constitution immediately on taking power on January 24, but later reversed this in the face of pressure from neighbours in West Africa demanding a return to civilian rule.

The military authorities have promised to re-establish "constitutional order" within a "reasonable time" but the issue of a date for elections remains unsettled.

On February 5, the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;announced that a 15-member commission will be tasked with "drawing up a draft charter and agenda, together with a proposal for the duration of the transition period".

Burkina&nbsp;Faso is one of the world's poorest countries and one of the most volatile in Africa.

Watch |&nbsp;Burkina Faso gets an interim president, constitution restored after a week

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The landlocked Sahel state has experienced repeated coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, and is battling a brutal jihadist insurgency.

More than 2,000 people have died, according to an AFP tally, while the country's emergencies agency says more than 1.5 million people have fled their homes.

Burkina Faso strongman Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was inaugurated as president on Wednesday, just over three weeks after he led a coup to topple elected head of state Roch Marc Christian Kabore.

Burkina Faso strongman Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was inaugurated as president on Wednesday, just over three weeks after he led a coup to topple elected head of state Roch Marc Christian Kabore. In a televised ceremony, Damiba swore an oath before the country's top constitutional body to "preserve, respect, uphold and defend the Constitution", the nation's laws and a "fundamental act" of key decisions approved by the junta. Damiba was dressed in camouflage uniform and a red beret, and wore a sash in the colours of Burkina's national flag. Also read | Burkina Faso: Diplomats say they would help junta, vow to 'restore security' The press, but no foreign representatives, attended the ceremony in a small room at the offices of the Constitutional Council. On January 24, Damiba, 41, led disgruntled officers to force out Kabore following public anger over his handling of a bloody jihadist insurgency. Last week, the Constitutional Council formally determined that Damiba was president, head of state and supreme commander of the armed forces. The move confirmed an announcement by the junta on January 31 that Damiba would be appointed to those roles for a transitional period, and be assisted by two vice presidents. Also read | African Union suspends Burkina Faso; junta says constitution restored The junta suspended the constitution immediately on taking power on January 24, but later reversed this in the face of pressure from neighbours in West Africa demanding a return to civilian rule. The military authorities have promised to re-establish "constitutional order" within a "reasonable time" but the issue of a date for elections remains unsettled. On February 5, the junta announced that a 15-member commission will be tasked with "drawing up a draft charter and agenda, together with a proposal for the duration of the transition period". Burkina Faso is one of the world's poorest countries and one of the most volatile in Africa. Watch | Burkina Faso gets an interim president, constitution restored after a week The landlocked Sahel state has experienced repeated coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, and is battling a brutal jihadist insurgency. More than 2,000 people have died, according to an AFP tally, while the country's emergencies agency says more than 1.5 million people have fled their homes.

Burkina junta chief sworn in as president

French counter-terrorism forces based in West Africa killed 10 suspected militants who are allegedly involved in murdering police officers in Burkina Faso last November.

France troops in Sahel combat Islamist militant groups

From Burkina Faso to Mali: West Africa's new wave of coups

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf.

The junta's leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba has in the past week been in talks with international organisations and donors after ousting president Roch Marc Christian Kabore on January 24.

Kabore's toppling came after public anger over his handling of a jihadist insurgency in the impoverished country that has claimed more than 2,000 lives and displaced 1.5 million since 2015.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-genocide-games-kick-off-amid-backlash-from-all-across-the-world-450560">Also read |&nbsp;Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world</a>

Diplomats representing China, the European Union, France and neighbouring Mali on Friday met Damiba.

Chinese ambassador Li Jian said after the meeting that those who attended would contribute to restoring security in the country.

"We will make our contribution, we will walk together in a spirit of solidarity and brotherhood so that (Burkina Faso) can restore peace and security as soon as possible," he said, without providing more details.

Mali is also ruled by a military junta following two coups since August 2020 and battling jihadists on its soil.

France has around 4,000 troops deployed across West Africa's Sahel region to fight the jihadists.

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf.

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf. The junta's leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba has in the past week been in talks with international organisations and donors after ousting president Roch Marc Christian Kabore on January 24. Kabore's toppling came after public anger over his handling of a jihadist insurgency in the impoverished country that has claimed more than 2,000 lives and displaced 1.5 million since 2015. Also read | Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world Diplomats representing China, the European Union, France and neighbouring Mali on Friday met Damiba. Chinese ambassador Li Jian said after the meeting that those who attended would contribute to restoring security in the country. "We will make our contribution, we will walk together in a spirit of solidarity and brotherhood so that (Burkina Faso) can restore peace and security as soon as possible," he said, without providing more details. Mali is also ruled by a military junta following two coups since August 2020 and battling jihadists on its soil. France has around 4,000 troops deployed across West Africa's Sahel region to fight the jihadists.

Burkina Faso: Diplomats say they would help junta, vow to 'restore security'

After a week since the military deposed the president Roch Kabore in Burkina Faso and also suspended the constitution, the leaders of the coup have now announced a new interim president.

Burkina Faso gets an interim president, constitution restored after a week

Burkina Faso's military junta said Monday it had restored the constitution a week after taking power and appointed the coup's leader as head of state for a transitional period.

The move came shortly after the&nbsp;African&nbsp;Union&nbsp;suspended Burkina for the takeover and diplomats from West Africa and the UN pressed demands for a return to civilian rule.

In a statement read on television, the junta announced it had approved a "fundamental act" that "lifts the suspension of the constitution," a move that had been declared after the January 24 coup.

The 37-article document guarantees independence of the judiciary and presumption of innocence, as well as basic liberties spelt out in the constitution such as freedom of movement and freedom of speech, according to the statement.

Under the "fundamental act", it said, the junta -- officially named the Patriotic Movement for Preservation and Restoration (MPSR) -- "ensures the continuity of the state pending the establishment of transitional bodies."

The statement did not give a timeline for the transition period.

It formally identified coup leader Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba as president of the MPSR.

This role also encompasses "president of Burkina Faso, head of state (and) supreme leader of the armed forces," the statement said.

The MPSR has two vice presidents, the statement added, but it did not mention any names.

A separate decree read on television said that the armed forces chief of staff, Gilbert Ouedraogo, was leaving the job.&nbsp;

Just hours earlier, the AU's 15-member Peace and Security Council&nbsp;said on Twitter it had voted "to suspend the participation of #BurkinaFaso in all AU activities until the effective restoration of constitutional order in the country".

On Friday, the Economic Community of West&nbsp;African&nbsp;States (ECOWAS) also suspended Burkina Faso from its ranks and warned of possible sanctions pending the outcome of meetings with the junta.

An ECOWAS mission headed by Ghanaian Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchway arrived in Ouagadougou, where it was joined by the UN's special representative for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mahamat Saleh Annadif.

After meeting members of the junta, some of the delegation visited ousted president Roch Marc Christian Kabore, who is under house arrest, a delegate said.

His wellbeing and demands for his release have been major issues since the coup.&nbsp;

ECOWAS sent military chiefs to confer with Damiba on Saturday.&nbsp;

Leaders from the bloc will hold a summit in Accra on Thursday to assess its two missions to see whether they should impose sanctions.

They have previously suspended and enforced sanctions against two other members -- Mali and Guinea -- which have also seen military overthrows in the past 18 months.

Burkina Faso's military junta said Monday it had restored the constitution a week after taking power and appointed the coup's leader as head of state for a transitional period.

Burkina Faso's military junta said Monday it had restored the constitution a week after taking power and appointed the coup's leader as head of state for a transitional period. The move came shortly after the African Union suspended Burkina for the takeover and diplomats from West Africa and the UN pressed demands for a return to civilian rule. In a statement read on television, the junta announced it had approved a "fundamental act" that "lifts the suspension of the constitution," a move that had been declared after the January 24 coup. The 37-article document guarantees independence of the judiciary and presumption of innocence, as well as basic liberties spelt out in the constitution such as freedom of movement and freedom of speech, according to the statement. Under the "fundamental act", it said, the junta -- officially named the Patriotic Movement for Preservation and Restoration (MPSR) -- "ensures the continuity of the state pending the establishment of transitional bodies." The statement did not give a timeline for the transition period. It formally identified coup leader Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba as president of the MPSR. This role also encompasses "president of Burkina Faso, head of state (and) supreme leader of the armed forces," the statement said. The MPSR has two vice presidents, the statement added, but it did not mention any names. A separate decree read on television said that the armed forces chief of staff, Gilbert Ouedraogo, was leaving the job. Just hours earlier, the AU's 15-member Peace and Security Council said on Twitter it had voted "to suspend the participation of #BurkinaFaso in all AU activities until the effective restoration of constitutional order in the country". On Friday, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) also suspended Burkina Faso from its ranks and warned of possible sanctions pending the outcome of meetings with the junta. An ECOWAS mission headed by Ghanaian Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchway arrived in Ouagadougou, where it was joined by the UN's special representative for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mahamat Saleh Annadif. After meeting members of the junta, some of the delegation visited ousted president Roch Marc Christian Kabore, who is under house arrest, a delegate said. His wellbeing and demands for his release have been major issues since the coup. ECOWAS sent military chiefs to confer with Damiba on Saturday. Leaders from the bloc will hold a summit in Accra on Thursday to assess its two missions to see whether they should impose sanctions. They have previously suspended and enforced sanctions against two other members -- Mali and Guinea -- which have also seen military overthrows in the past 18 months.

African Union suspends Burkina Faso; junta says constitution restored

Five days after the military takeover in Burkina Faso, West Africa's main regional block, the ECOWAS has suspended Burkina Faso from its governing bodies.

ECOWAS suspends Burkina Faso from its governing bodies amid military takeover

Burkina Faso's new military leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba said on Thursday that the West African country's return to constitutional order when conditions are right.

Damiba spoke for the first time on national television since leading a mutiny that ousted President Roch Marc Kabore on Monday.

"When the conditions are right, according to the deadline that our people will define in all sovereignty, I commit to a return to a normal constitutional order," Damiba said.

Wearing a red beret, army fatigues and flanked by national flags, Damiba said he would convene various sections of Burkina Faso's society to agree on a roadmap to plan and carry out needed reforms.

The junta said on Monday after seizing power that it would propose a calendar for a return to constitutional order "within a reasonable time frame" but has not elaborated on its plans.

The officers, who call themselves the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration (MPSR), launched a mutiny on Sunday night, and removed Kabore on Monday, blaming him for failing to contain worsening violence by Islamist militants.

Damiba promised farmers and herders and people across the West African Sahel nation affected by violence from militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State, and said he would take back control of those zones. He said security would be priority.

Damiba's speech come before a planned emergency summit of the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Friday to discuss how to respond to the coup.

ECOWAS imposed sanctions on Burkina Faso's neighbour Mali and Guinea following military takeovers in August 2020 and September 2021, respectively.

This latest coup in West and Central Africa comes amid an increasingly bloody Islamist insurgency that has killed thousands and displaced millions across the Sahel region, eroding faith in democratic leaders to combat the problem.

The juntas in Mali and Guinea, as well as in the Central African nation of Chad, where the military took power in April 2021, have all set up transitional governments with a mixture of military officers and civilians.

The juntas in Mali and Chad agreed to 18-month transitions to democratic elections, while Guinea's has not yet laid out a timeline.

Malian authorities, however, have gone back on their original commitment and have proposed delaying elections, originally scheduled for next month, by up to four years.

Burkina Faso's new military leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba said on Thursday that the West African country's return to constitutional order when conditions are right.

Burkina Faso's new military leader Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba said on Thursday that the West African country's return to constitutional order when conditions are right. Damiba spoke for the first time on national television since leading a mutiny that ousted President Roch Marc Kabore on Monday. "When the conditions are right, according to the deadline that our people will define in all sovereignty, I commit to a return to a normal constitutional order," Damiba said. Wearing a red beret, army fatigues and flanked by national flags, Damiba said he would convene various sections of Burkina Faso's society to agree on a roadmap to plan and carry out needed reforms. The junta said on Monday after seizing power that it would propose a calendar for a return to constitutional order "within a reasonable time frame" but has not elaborated on its plans. The officers, who call themselves the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration (MPSR), launched a mutiny on Sunday night, and removed Kabore on Monday, blaming him for failing to contain worsening violence by Islamist militants. Damiba promised farmers and herders and people across the West African Sahel nation affected by violence from militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State, and said he would take back control of those zones. He said security would be priority. Damiba's speech come before a planned emergency summit of the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) on Friday to discuss how to respond to the coup. ECOWAS imposed sanctions on Burkina Faso's neighbour Mali and Guinea following military takeovers in August 2020 and September 2021, respectively. This latest coup in West and Central Africa comes amid an increasingly bloody Islamist insurgency that has killed thousands and displaced millions across the Sahel region, eroding faith in democratic leaders to combat the problem. The juntas in Mali and Guinea, as well as in the Central African nation of Chad, where the military took power in April 2021, have all set up transitional governments with a mixture of military officers and civilians. The juntas in Mali and Chad agreed to 18-month transitions to democratic elections, while Guinea's has not yet laid out a timeline. Malian authorities, however, have gone back on their original commitment and have proposed delaying elections, originally scheduled for next month, by up to four years.

Burkina Faso will return to constitutional order when conditions are right, military leader says

The military in Burkina Faso has overthrown the country's President Roch Kabore. The people are celebrating the military takeover on the streets. Why? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Why people celebrated a coup in Burkina Faso

The African continent has witnessed yet another coup, the military swept to power yesterday in Burkina Faso but the people are not unhappy with the military takeover. They are celebrating the coup on the streets, why are the people siding with the military our next report has the answers.

Burkina Faso coup: Why are people unhappy with the government?

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament.

They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." 
 
Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced&nbsp;that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked.

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The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coup-or-mutiny-burkina-faso-on-the-boil-heres-what-is-happening-447146#why-is-burkina-fasos-army-mutinying-447134">Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening</a>

The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place.

The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-unrest-blood-stained-bullet-riddled-vehicles-of-president-seen-near-his-residence-447194">Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence</a> 
 
The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. 
Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time.

Burkina Faso's soldiers stated on state television Monday that they had seized control and dissolved the country's government and parliament. They also stated that the country's borders had been blocked and pledged a "return to constitutional order" in a "reasonable time." Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso's army announced that President Roch Kabore had been deposed, that the constitution had been suspended, that the government and national legislature had been dissolved, and that the country's borders had been blocked. × The announcement blamed the worsening security situation and Kabore's incapacity to unite the West African nation and properly respond to the difficulties it faced, including an Islamist insurgency. Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening The announcement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and delivered on state television by another officer, stated that the takeover was peaceful and that those detained were being held in a secure place. The Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR in French, issued the declaration in the name of a previously unknown organisation. Also read | Burkina Faso unrest: Blood stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence The army broadcast came after two days of chaos and terror in the capital, Ouagadougou, where soldiers demanded additional backing for their war against Islamist extremists, and shooting erupted at army camps on Sunday. Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday after heavy gunfire was heard overnight in the area surrounding his home. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Burkina Faso soldiers announce military takeover on state TV

Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening

Soldiers have seized power in Burkina Faso, the takeover follows a mutiny over the civilian president's failure to contain an Islamist insurgency. Burkina Faso's army has ousted President Roch Kabore, suspended the constitution, dissolved the government and the national assembly.

Africa: Burkina Faso army deposes President Roch Kabore in latest coup

Soldiers in Burkina Faso have deposed the government, closed the borders and taken control of the country. President Roch Marc Christian Kabore has reportedly been arrested.

Burkina Faso army seize power from President Roch Kabore

Several presidential fleet armoured vehicles were sighted near the president's mansion on Monday morning (January 24), covered with blood and damaged with gunshots, following claims that Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore had been detained at a military barracks by mutinous soldiers.

It was unclear whether Kabore was in the vehicle at the time of the incident, but people in the president's area reported hearing a lot of gunfire overnight.&nbsp;

According to reports, mutinous soldiers are occupying Kabore.

They did not indicate where Kabore was being detained, but they did claim he was safe. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/burkina-faso-president-kabore-detained-at-military-camp-say-sources-447183">Also read | Burkina Faso President Kabore detained at military camp, say sources</a> 
 
Gunshots were heard near the president's apartment late Sunday night, and a skirmish broke out at the presidential palace early Monday while a helicopter buzzed overhead.

Except for checkpoints fiercely manned by mutinous soldiers, the streets of the city were deserted Sunday night. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coup-or-mutiny-burkina-faso-on-the-boil-heres-what-is-happening-447146#why-is-burkina-fasos-army-mutinying-447134">Pictures |&nbsp;Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening</a>

On Monday morning, the state news station RTB was tightly guarded while individuals on the street drove their cars and rode their motorcycles, attempting to resume their daily routine.

There were groups of people celebrating in the streets, shouting their horns and parading.

Some members of the crowd were angry and refused to allow the media to photograph them.

Due to the circumstances, the administration has shuttered schools until Tuesday and imposed a nighttime curfew.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Several presidential fleet armoured vehicles were sighted near the president's mansion on Monday morning (January 24), covered with blood and damaged with gunshots, following claims that Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore had been detained at a military barracks by mutinous soldiers.

Several presidential fleet armoured vehicles were sighted near the president's mansion on Monday morning (January 24), covered with blood and damaged with gunshots, following claims that Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore had been detained at a military barracks by mutinous soldiers. It was unclear whether Kabore was in the vehicle at the time of the incident, but people in the president's area reported hearing a lot of gunfire overnight. According to reports, mutinous soldiers are occupying Kabore. They did not indicate where Kabore was being detained, but they did claim he was safe. Also read | Burkina Faso President Kabore detained at military camp, say sources Gunshots were heard near the president's apartment late Sunday night, and a skirmish broke out at the presidential palace early Monday while a helicopter buzzed overhead. Except for checkpoints fiercely manned by mutinous soldiers, the streets of the city were deserted Sunday night. Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening On Monday morning, the state news station RTB was tightly guarded while individuals on the street drove their cars and rode their motorcycles, attempting to resume their daily routine. There were groups of people celebrating in the streets, shouting their horns and parading. Some members of the crowd were angry and refused to allow the media to photograph them. Due to the circumstances, the administration has shuttered schools until Tuesday and imposed a nighttime curfew. (With inputs from agencies)

Burkina Faso unrest: Blood-stained, bullet-riddled vehicles of President seen near his residence

In the aftermath of a military takeover in Burkina Faso, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has "condemned attempted takeover of government by the force of arms".&nbsp;

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Monday (January 24) that Guterres has strongly condemned the takeover and also called on the coup leaders to lay down their weapons.&nbsp;

On Monday, Burkina Faso's army informed that it had ousted President Roch Kabore as they announced the takeover on state television.&nbsp;

Dujarric added that Guterres has asked the coup leaders "to ensure the protection of the physical integrity of the president and of the institutions of Burkina Faso".&nbsp;

The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and read by another officer, mentioned that the power shift has been done without violence. They also informed that those who are detained were at a secure location.&nbsp;

The army has dissolved the government and the national assembly, suspended the constitution and closed the country's borders as they cited the deterioration of the security situation in the country for the takeover.&nbsp;

The army said Kabore was unable to unite the West African nation and effectively respond to challenges, which include an Islamist insurgency.&nbsp;

The statement was made in the name of a previously unheard-of entity, the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR, its French-language acronym.

"MPSR, which includes all sections of the army, has decided to end President Kabore's post today," it said.

Where is President Roch Kabore?

The takeover was announced after two days of confusion and fear in Ouagadougou, the capital, where shootings erupted at army camps on Sunday.&nbsp;

However, the statement by the army appears to be conflicting with what has happened in the past two-to-three days.&nbsp;

Reuters report mentioned that several armoured vehicles belonging to the presidential fleet were spotted near Kabore's residence on Monday. The vehicles were riddled with bullets and one was even spattered with blood.

Security sources gave conflicting accounts of Kabore's situation, with some saying he was being detained by the coup organisers and others saying forces loyal to him had taken him to a secure location.&nbsp;

Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday, with conflicting accounts of his situation.

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(With inputs from agencies)

In the aftermath of a military takeover in Burkina Faso, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has "condemned attempted takeover of government by the force of arms".

In the aftermath of a military takeover in Burkina Faso, the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has "condemned attempted takeover of government by the force of arms". UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said on Monday (January 24) that Guterres has strongly condemned the takeover and also called on the coup leaders to lay down their weapons. On Monday, Burkina Faso's army informed that it had ousted President Roch Kabore as they announced the takeover on state television. Dujarric added that Guterres has asked the coup leaders "to ensure the protection of the physical integrity of the president and of the institutions of Burkina Faso". The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba and read by another officer, mentioned that the power shift has been done without violence. They also informed that those who are detained were at a secure location. The army has dissolved the government and the national assembly, suspended the constitution and closed the country's borders as they cited the deterioration of the security situation in the country for the takeover. The army said Kabore was unable to unite the West African nation and effectively respond to challenges, which include an Islamist insurgency. The statement was made in the name of a previously unheard-of entity, the Patriotic Movement for Safeguard and Restoration, or MPSR, its French-language acronym. "MPSR, which includes all sections of the army, has decided to end President Kabore's post today," it said. Where is President Roch Kabore? The takeover was announced after two days of confusion and fear in Ouagadougou, the capital, where shootings erupted at army camps on Sunday. However, the statement by the army appears to be conflicting with what has happened in the past two-to-three days. Reuters report mentioned that several armoured vehicles belonging to the presidential fleet were spotted near Kabore's residence on Monday. The vehicles were riddled with bullets and one was even spattered with blood. Security sources gave conflicting accounts of Kabore's situation, with some saying he was being detained by the coup organisers and others saying forces loyal to him had taken him to a secure location. Kabore's whereabouts were unknown on Monday, with conflicting accounts of his situation. × (With inputs from agencies)

Burkina Faso: UN chief asks coup leaders to lay down arms after military seized power

Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore has been detained at a military camp by mutinying soldiers, four security sources and a West African diplomat said on Monday, following heavy gunfire around his residence on Sunday night in the capital Ouagadougou.

His detention comes after sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in the West African country throughout Sunday, with soldiers demanding more support for their fight against Islamist militants. The government had denied that the army had seized power.

Kabore's exact whereabouts or situation were unknown on Monday morning, with conflicting reports circulating among security and diplomatic sources.

Several armoured vehicles of the presidential fleet, riddled with bullets, could be seen near the president's residence. One was spattered with blood. Residents of the president's neighbourhood reported heavy gunfire overnight.

Three armoured vehicles and soldiers wearing balaclavas were stationed outside the headquarters of the state broadcaster.

Government sources could not immediately be reached on Monday.

Kabore has faced waves of street protests in recent months as frustration has mounted over the frequent killing of civilians and soldiers by militants, some of whom have links to Islamic State and al Qaeda.

A militant attack in November on a gendarmerie post in Inata, in the northern Soum region, killed 49 military police officers and four civilians. It later emerged the forces stationed there had run out of food and been forced to slaughter animals in the vicinity for two weeks.

Protesters came out to support the mutineers on Sunday and ransacked the headquarters of Kabore's political party. The government declared a curfew from 2000 GMT to 0530 GMT until further notice and closed schools for two days.

The turmoil in Burkina Faso comes after successful military putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September.

The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield there. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/coup-or-mutiny-burkina-faso-on-the-boil-heres-what-is-happening-447146#why-is-burkina-fasos-army-mutinying-447134">Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening</a> 
 
Burkina Faso is one of the poorest countries in West Africa despite being a gold producer.

Islamist militants control swathes of the country and have forced residents in some areas to abide by their harsh version of Islamic law, while the military's struggle to quell the insurgency has drained scarce national resources.

Buffeted by street protests, Kabore had pledged in November to end "dysfunction" in the army, saying an inquiry into the Inata attack would be followed by disciplinary measures and that he would launch an anti-corruption drive.

Some of the anger in Burkina Faso late last year was also directed against former colonial ruler France, which has deployed thousands of soldiers in West Africa's Sahel region to combat the militants.

Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore has been detained at a military camp by mutinying soldiers, four security sources and a West African diplomat said on Monday, following heavy gunfire around his residence on Sunday night in the capital Ouagadougou.

Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore has been detained at a military camp by mutinying soldiers, four security sources and a West African diplomat said on Monday, following heavy gunfire around his residence on Sunday night in the capital Ouagadougou. His detention comes after sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in the West African country throughout Sunday, with soldiers demanding more support for their fight against Islamist militants. The government had denied that the army had seized power. Kabore's exact whereabouts or situation were unknown on Monday morning, with conflicting reports circulating among security and diplomatic sources. Several armoured vehicles of the presidential fleet, riddled with bullets, could be seen near the president's residence. One was spattered with blood. Residents of the president's neighbourhood reported heavy gunfire overnight. Three armoured vehicles and soldiers wearing balaclavas were stationed outside the headquarters of the state broadcaster. Government sources could not immediately be reached on Monday. Kabore has faced waves of street protests in recent months as frustration has mounted over the frequent killing of civilians and soldiers by militants, some of whom have links to Islamic State and al Qaeda. A militant attack in November on a gendarmerie post in Inata, in the northern Soum region, killed 49 military police officers and four civilians. It later emerged the forces stationed there had run out of food and been forced to slaughter animals in the vicinity for two weeks. Protesters came out to support the mutineers on Sunday and ransacked the headquarters of Kabore's political party. The government declared a curfew from 2000 GMT to 0530 GMT until further notice and closed schools for two days. The turmoil in Burkina Faso comes after successful military putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September. The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield there. Pictures | Coup or mutiny? Burkina Faso on the boil: Here's what is happening Burkina Faso is one of the poorest countries in West Africa despite being a gold producer. Islamist militants control swathes of the country and have forced residents in some areas to abide by their harsh version of Islamic law, while the military's struggle to quell the insurgency has drained scarce national resources. Buffeted by street protests, Kabore had pledged in November to end "dysfunction" in the army, saying an inquiry into the Inata attack would be followed by disciplinary measures and that he would launch an anti-corruption drive. Some of the anger in Burkina Faso late last year was also directed against former colonial ruler France, which has deployed thousands of soldiers in West Africa's Sahel region to combat the militants.

Burkina Faso President Kabore detained at military camp, say sources

Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore has been detained at a military camp by mutinying soldiers, four security sources, and a West African diplomat said on Monday. Earlier, heavy gunfire around his residence.

Burkina Faso President Roch Kabore detained by mutinying soldiers

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party.

The government called for calm, denying speculation on social media that the army had seized power or detained Kabore.

A spokesperson for the mutineers said they were demanding "appropriate" resources and training for the army in its fight against militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and the resignation of the army and intelligence chiefs.

Frustration in the West African gold producing country has grown in recent months over deteriorating security. The deaths of 49 military police in a militant attack in November prompted violent street protests calling for Kabore to step down.

Protesters in the streets of the capital Ouagadougou on Sunday urged the soldiers to go further, chanting "Free the country!"

The mutiny underlines the threat posed by growing Islamist insurgencies across West Africa’s Sahel region, a semi-arid strip of land beneath the Sahara Desert.

The militants have seized control of swathes of territory across&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso and its neighbours, Mali and Niger. In some cases, they force residents to abide by their harsh interpretation of Islamic law.

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Heavy gunfire was first heard on Sunday at Ouagadougou's Sangoule Lamizana camp, which houses a prison whose inmates include soldiers involved in a failed 2015 coup attempt, as early as 5:00 am (0500 GMT), Reuters reporters said.

Hundreds of people later came out in support of the mutineers. At the Lamizana camp, where a crowd of about 100 sang the national anthem and chanted, the soldiers responded by firing into the air. It was not clear if this was meant to show support for the demonstrators or to disperse them.

In downtown Ouagadougou, near the Place de la Nation, police fired teargas to disperse around 300 protesters.

Soldiers also fired into the air at an air base close to Ouagadougou International Airport, according to Reuters reporters. The US embassy also reported gunfire at three other military bases in Ouagadougou and at bases in the northern towns of Kaya and Ouahigouya.

Elsewhere in Ouagadougou, protesters burned and looted the headquarters of Kabore's People's Movement for Progress (MPP), a Reuters reporter said.

The spokesperson for the mutineers, who addressed reporters in front of Lamizana camp, called for better welfare for wounded soldiers and their families.

COUP FEARS

Burkina&nbsp;Faso's government confirmed gunfire at some military camps but denied reports on social media that the army had seized power.

Speaking on national television, Defence Minister General Bathelemy Simpore said the reasons for the gunfire were still unclear.

"The head of state has not been detained; no institution of the country has been threatened," Simpore said. "For now, we don’t know their motives or what they are demanding. We are trying to get in contact with them," he said.

Kabore was not seen in public. His Twitter account issued a single tweet on Sunday to encourage&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso's national soccer team in its Africa Cup of Nations match against Gabon later in the day. It made no mention of events at home.

NetBlocks, an internet blockage observatory, said web access had been disrupted as of around 10 am&nbsp;A spokesperson for the airport said flights had not been cancelled.

Governments in West and Central Africa are on high alert for coups after successful putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September.

The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield.

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Burkinabe authorities arrested a dozen soldiers earlier this month on suspicion of conspiring against the government.

The arrests followed a shake-up within the army's leadership in December, which some analysts saw as an effort by President Kabore to shore up his support within the military.

Rising violence in&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso driven by Islamist attacks killed over 2,000 people last year.

Anti-government demonstrations were planned for Saturday, but the government banned them and the police intervened to disperse the hundreds of people who tried to assemble in Ouagadougou.

The government has suspended mobile internet service on several occasions, and the tense situation in November led the UN special envoy to West Africa to warn against any military takeover.

Among the inmates at the Lamizana camp prison is General Gilbert Diendere, who was sentenced in 2019 to 20 years in prison for his role in a failed 2015 coup.

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in Burkina Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party.

Sustained gunfire rang out from military camps in Burkina Faso on Sunday as mutinying soldiers demanded more support for their fight against Islamist militants and protesters ransacked the headquarters of President Roch Kabore's political party. The government called for calm, denying speculation on social media that the army had seized power or detained Kabore. A spokesperson for the mutineers said they were demanding "appropriate" resources and training for the army in its fight against militants linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State and the resignation of the army and intelligence chiefs. Frustration in the West African gold producing country has grown in recent months over deteriorating security. The deaths of 49 military police in a militant attack in November prompted violent street protests calling for Kabore to step down. Protesters in the streets of the capital Ouagadougou on Sunday urged the soldiers to go further, chanting "Free the country!" The mutiny underlines the threat posed by growing Islamist insurgencies across West Africa’s Sahel region, a semi-arid strip of land beneath the Sahara Desert. The militants have seized control of swathes of territory across Burkina Faso and its neighbours, Mali and Niger. In some cases, they force residents to abide by their harsh interpretation of Islamic law. Also read | German Navy chief steps down after his New Delhi comments on Putin, Ukraine Heavy gunfire was first heard on Sunday at Ouagadougou's Sangoule Lamizana camp, which houses a prison whose inmates include soldiers involved in a failed 2015 coup attempt, as early as 5:00 am (0500 GMT), Reuters reporters said. Hundreds of people later came out in support of the mutineers. At the Lamizana camp, where a crowd of about 100 sang the national anthem and chanted, the soldiers responded by firing into the air. It was not clear if this was meant to show support for the demonstrators or to disperse them. In downtown Ouagadougou, near the Place de la Nation, police fired teargas to disperse around 300 protesters. Soldiers also fired into the air at an air base close to Ouagadougou International Airport, according to Reuters reporters. The US embassy also reported gunfire at three other military bases in Ouagadougou and at bases in the northern towns of Kaya and Ouahigouya. Elsewhere in Ouagadougou, protesters burned and looted the headquarters of Kabore's People's Movement for Progress (MPP), a Reuters reporter said. The spokesperson for the mutineers, who addressed reporters in front of Lamizana camp, called for better welfare for wounded soldiers and their families. COUP FEARS Burkina Faso's government confirmed gunfire at some military camps but denied reports on social media that the army had seized power. Speaking on national television, Defence Minister General Bathelemy Simpore said the reasons for the gunfire were still unclear. "The head of state has not been detained; no institution of the country has been threatened," Simpore said. "For now, we don’t know their motives or what they are demanding. We are trying to get in contact with them," he said. Kabore was not seen in public. His Twitter account issued a single tweet on Sunday to encourage Burkina Faso's national soccer team in its Africa Cup of Nations match against Gabon later in the day. It made no mention of events at home. NetBlocks, an internet blockage observatory, said web access had been disrupted as of around 10 am A spokesperson for the airport said flights had not been cancelled. Governments in West and Central Africa are on high alert for coups after successful putsches over the past 18 months in Mali and Guinea, where the army removed President Alpha Conde last September. The military also took over in Chad last year after President Idriss Deby died on the battlefield. Also read | Russia calls UK's claim as 'evidence' that NATO escalating tensions around Ukraine Burkinabe authorities arrested a dozen soldiers earlier this month on suspicion of conspiring against the government. The arrests followed a shake-up within the army's leadership in December, which some analysts saw as an effort by President Kabore to shore up his support within the military. Rising violence in Burkina Faso driven by Islamist attacks killed over 2,000 people last year. Anti-government demonstrations were planned for Saturday, but the government banned them and the police intervened to disperse the hundreds of people who tried to assemble in Ouagadougou. The government has suspended mobile internet service on several occasions, and the tense situation in November led the UN special envoy to West Africa to warn against any military takeover. Among the inmates at the Lamizana camp prison is General Gilbert Diendere, who was sentenced in 2019 to 20 years in prison for his role in a failed 2015 coup.

Soldiers mutiny in Burkina Faso, government dismisses talk of coup

The death toll from an attack on civilians and the military in northern Burkina Faso has risen to 80 people. The attack occurred on Wednesday when jihadists raided a civilian convoy that was being escorted by military police near the town of Arbinda.

Burkina Faso Attack: 80 killed after jihadist target civilian convoy

Burkina&nbsp;Faso's president declared three days of national mourning from Thursday after suspected jihadists killed 47 people, including 30 civilians, in an attack in the north of the country.

The attack was the latest bloodshed in an area plagued by Islamist violence.

The assault Wednesday near the town of Gorgadji also left 14 soldiers and three militia volunteers dead, the communications ministry said.

The soldiers and militia had been "guarding civilians setting off for Arbinda," another town in northern&nbsp;Burkina.

In an ensuing gunbattle, security forces killed 58 "terrorists" and put the rest to flight, according to the government. Nineteen people were also wounded, it said.

"Rescue and relief operations are continuing," it said.

The area is in the notorious "three-border" zone where&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso&nbsp;meets Mali and Niger, a focus of the jihadist violence that plagues the wider Sahel region of west Africa.

It was the third major attack on Burkinabe soldiers in the past two weeks, including one on August 4 near the Niger border which killed 30 people, including 11 civilians.

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President Roch Marc Christian Kabore declared three days of national mourning from Thursday for the victims of the latest attack, according to an official decree.

Flags would be flown at half-mast from public buildings and festivities banned during the period, it said.

Burkina&nbsp;Faso, a poor country in the arid sub-Saharan Sahel region, has since 2015 been battling increasingly frequent and deadly attacks by jihadist groups affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda.

On June 4-5, gunmen killed at least 132 people, including children, in the northeast village of Solhan,&nbsp;Burkina's deadliest attack in the history of the insurgency.

Raids and ambushes have been concentrated in the north and east close to the borders with Mali and Niger, both of which have also faced deadly violence by jihadists.

These attacks along with inter-communal violence have left more than 1,400 people dead and forced 1.3 million to flee their homes, according to official estimates. &nbsp;

Along with central Mali, the vast, arid "three-border" region straddling Niger, Mali and&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso&nbsp;has become the worst-hit area in the jihadists' Sahel campaign.

Militants linked to Al-Qaeda emerged in northern Mali in 2012, prompting French military intervention. After being scattered, the jihadists regrouped and spread to neighbouring countries.

Burkina Faso's president declared three days of national mourning from Thursday after suspected jihadists killed 47 people, including 30 civilians, in an attack in the north of the country.

Burkina Faso's president declared three days of national mourning from Thursday after suspected jihadists killed 47 people, including 30 civilians, in an attack in the north of the country. The attack was the latest bloodshed in an area plagued by Islamist violence. The assault Wednesday near the town of Gorgadji also left 14 soldiers and three militia volunteers dead, the communications ministry said. The soldiers and militia had been "guarding civilians setting off for Arbinda," another town in northern Burkina. In an ensuing gunbattle, security forces killed 58 "terrorists" and put the rest to flight, according to the government. Nineteen people were also wounded, it said. "Rescue and relief operations are continuing," it said. The area is in the notorious "three-border" zone where Burkina Faso meets Mali and Niger, a focus of the jihadist violence that plagues the wider Sahel region of west Africa. It was the third major attack on Burkinabe soldiers in the past two weeks, including one on August 4 near the Niger border which killed 30 people, including 11 civilians. Also read | 'We welcome this': What China stands to benefit from rise of Taliban in Afghanistan President Roch Marc Christian Kabore declared three days of national mourning from Thursday for the victims of the latest attack, according to an official decree. Flags would be flown at half-mast from public buildings and festivities banned during the period, it said. Burkina Faso, a poor country in the arid sub-Saharan Sahel region, has since 2015 been battling increasingly frequent and deadly attacks by jihadist groups affiliated with the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda. On June 4-5, gunmen killed at least 132 people, including children, in the northeast village of Solhan, Burkina's deadliest attack in the history of the insurgency. Raids and ambushes have been concentrated in the north and east close to the borders with Mali and Niger, both of which have also faced deadly violence by jihadists. These attacks along with inter-communal violence have left more than 1,400 people dead and forced 1.3 million to flee their homes, according to official estimates. Along with central Mali, the vast, arid "three-border" region straddling Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso has become the worst-hit area in the jihadists' Sahel campaign. Militants linked to Al-Qaeda emerged in northern Mali in 2012, prompting French military intervention. After being scattered, the jihadists regrouped and spread to neighbouring countries.

Forty-seven killed in Burkina Faso jihadist attack

In a series of attacks near the Niger border, an armed group in northern Burkina Faso murdered 30 civilians, army personnel, and pro-government militias, according to the defence ministry.

Unidentified assailants assaulted villages near the town of Markoye about midday on Wednesday, according to the ministry, and then attacked security personnel responding to the attacks later that afternoon.&nbsp;

According to the statement, a unit of troops and civilian auxiliaries was dispatched, but 19 of them were later murdered.&nbsp;

Eleven civilians, fifteen military, and four members of a government-backed civilian militia were among the dead.

According to the statement, more than ten of the assailants were dead, and the military had restored control of the region.&nbsp;

There was no instant admission of guilt.

Militant attacks have increased in the Sahel area of West Africa, killing thousands and displacing millions in recent years throughout Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Insurgents killed at least 132 people in Burkina Faso's deadliest single strike to date in May.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a series of attacks near the Niger border, an armed group in northern Burkina Faso murdered 30 civilians, army personnel, and pro-government militias, according to the defence ministry.

In a series of attacks near the Niger border, an armed group in northern Burkina Faso murdered 30 civilians, army personnel, and pro-government militias, according to the defence ministry. Unidentified assailants assaulted villages near the town of Markoye about midday on Wednesday, according to the ministry, and then attacked security personnel responding to the attacks later that afternoon. According to the statement, a unit of troops and civilian auxiliaries was dispatched, but 19 of them were later murdered. Eleven civilians, fifteen military, and four members of a government-backed civilian militia were among the dead. According to the statement, more than ten of the assailants were dead, and the military had restored control of the region. There was no instant admission of guilt. Militant attacks have increased in the Sahel area of West Africa, killing thousands and displacing millions in recent years throughout Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. Insurgents killed at least 132 people in Burkina Faso's deadliest single strike to date in May. (With inputs from agencies)

30 killed in attacks in north Burkina Faso

Thousands took to the streets of Burkina Faso's capital on Saturday to call for a tougher government response to a wave of jihadist attacks that has destabilised the West African country in recent years.

Burkina Faso: Protest against rising terrorist attacks

Thousands took to the streets of Burkina Faso's capital on Saturday to call for a tougher government response to a wave of jihadist attacks that has destabilised the West African country in recent years.

Some had travelled hundreds of kilometres to attend the opposition-led demonstration in Ouagadougou, where protesters waved the red and green Burkinabe flag and blew whistles.

"We had to show our dissatisfaction, show the distress of citizens who are crying out for security and peace," said opposition supporter Alpha Yago on the sidelines of the protest.

Groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State originally based in neighbouring Mali have embedded themselves across the north and east of the country, launching regular attacks on civilians, including one in June that killed more than 130 people, the worst in years.

One protester held a placard with a photo of flag-draped coffins and the slogan: "Mr President, have the courage to decide. We are fed up!"

Pressure has increased on President Roch Kabore to take control and end a humanitarian crisis in which more than a million people have been displaced by the violence.

Last Wednesday Kabore took the role of defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at appeasing opposition leaders, who have demanded the resignation of the government.

One group of protesters had travelled nearly 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the eastern town of Madjoari, which has seen thousands of residents flee the jihadist threat.

"We cannot understand how a population suffers day after day and for over a month with no reaction from the government. It is deplorable," said Madjoari's deputy mayor Djergou Kouare, as fellow residents waved cardboard placards saying "SOS Madjoari".

Despite the presence of thousands of U.N. peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt.

Thousands took to the streets of Burkina Faso's capital on Saturday to call for a tougher government response to a wave of jihadist attacks that has destabilised the West African country in recent years. Some had travelled hundreds of kilometres to attend the opposition-led demonstration in Ouagadougou, where protesters waved the red and green Burkinabe flag and blew whistles. "We had to show our dissatisfaction, show the distress of citizens who are crying out for security and peace," said opposition supporter Alpha Yago on the sidelines of the protest. Groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State originally based in neighbouring Mali have embedded themselves across the north and east of the country, launching regular attacks on civilians, including one in June that killed more than 130 people, the worst in years. One protester held a placard with a photo of flag-draped coffins and the slogan: "Mr President, have the courage to decide. We are fed up!" Pressure has increased on President Roch Kabore to take control and end a humanitarian crisis in which more than a million people have been displaced by the violence. Last Wednesday Kabore took the role of defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle aimed at appeasing opposition leaders, who have demanded the resignation of the government. One group of protesters had travelled nearly 400 kilometres (250 miles) from the eastern town of Madjoari, which has seen thousands of residents flee the jihadist threat. "We cannot understand how a population suffers day after day and for over a month with no reaction from the government. It is deplorable," said Madjoari's deputy mayor Djergou Kouare, as fellow residents waved cardboard placards saying "SOS Madjoari". Despite the presence of thousands of U.N. peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt.

Thousands protest in Burkina Faso over jihadist attacks

Thousands of people took to the streets of&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso&nbsp;on Saturday, demanding a stronger response to rising jihadist bloodshed after a massacre last month killed more than 130 people.

The landlocked West African country has faced increasing attacks by jihadist groups linked Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State since 2015.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/children-aged-12-to-14-carried-out-the-attack-that-killed-over-130-in-burkina-faso-393815">Children aged 12 to 14 carried out the attack that killed over 130 in Burkina Faso</a>

In the capital Ouagadougou, protesters chanted "No to growing insecurity", "No to populations being abandoned", "No to endless attacks" and "Is there still a president in&nbsp;Burkina&nbsp;Faso?"

It was the first march organised by the opposition and civil society groups since President Roch Marc Christian Kabore was re-elected last year.

Kabore had asked the organisers to postpone the march.

But opposition leader Eddie Komboigo welcomed "a huge mobilisation across the country despite government calls for a boycott".

"Today, from Dori to Kampti, from Dedougou to Diebougou, from Ouagadougou to Diapaga, people demonstrated to protest against the worsening security situation," he said.

"During Kabore's first term, there were officially more than 1,300 deaths and 1.2 million internally displaced people," he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-132-civilians-killed-in-burkina-fasos-worst-attack-in-years-389688">At least 132 civilians killed in Burkina Faso's worst attack in years</a>

"It is feared that the second term will be worse than the first, because since the start of the year we have had more than 300 deaths".

A demonstrator in the eastern department of Madjoari told AFP by phone that he was marching "so that the many displaced people can return to their home regions and live peacefully".

Anger has been rising since the night of June 4, when the deadliest attack in the country's six-year Islamist insurgency was waged on the village of Solhan.

Armed men -- including "young people aged 12 to 14", authorities said -- killed at least 132 people, according to the government.&nbsp;

Local sources said the toll was 160, including many children.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/burkina-faso-massacre-biggest-attack-in-countrys-history-389698/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Civil society figure Aristide Ouedraogo said "in light of the latest macabre developments of the security front, it was time to send a strong signal to the leaders to pull themselves together".

In response to the growing fury, Kabore sacked his defence and security ministers on Wednesday. Kabore himself took over as defence minister.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Burkina Faso on Saturday, demanding a stronger response to rising jihadist bloodshed after a massacre last month killed more than 130 people.

Thousands of people took to the streets of Burkina Faso on Saturday, demanding a stronger response to rising jihadist bloodshed after a massacre last month killed more than 130 people. The landlocked West African country has faced increasing attacks by jihadist groups linked Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State since 2015. Also read | Children aged 12 to 14 carried out the attack that killed over 130 in Burkina Faso In the capital Ouagadougou, protesters chanted "No to growing insecurity", "No to populations being abandoned", "No to endless attacks" and "Is there still a president in Burkina Faso?" It was the first march organised by the opposition and civil society groups since President Roch Marc Christian Kabore was re-elected last year. Kabore had asked the organisers to postpone the march. But opposition leader Eddie Komboigo welcomed "a huge mobilisation across the country despite government calls for a boycott". "Today, from Dori to Kampti, from Dedougou to Diebougou, from Ouagadougou to Diapaga, people demonstrated to protest against the worsening security situation," he said. "During Kabore's first term, there were officially more than 1,300 deaths and 1.2 million internally displaced people," he added. Also read | At least 132 civilians killed in Burkina Faso's worst attack in years "It is feared that the second term will be worse than the first, because since the start of the year we have had more than 300 deaths". A demonstrator in the eastern department of Madjoari told AFP by phone that he was marching "so that the many displaced people can return to their home regions and live peacefully". Anger has been rising since the night of June 4, when the deadliest attack in the country's six-year Islamist insurgency was waged on the village of Solhan. Armed men -- including "young people aged 12 to 14", authorities said -- killed at least 132 people, according to the government. Local sources said the toll was 160, including many children. Civil society figure Aristide Ouedraogo said "in light of the latest macabre developments of the security front, it was time to send a strong signal to the leaders to pull themselves together". In response to the growing fury, Kabore sacked his defence and security ministers on Wednesday. Kabore himself took over as defence minister.

Thousands in Burkina Faso protest rising bloodshed

The government of Burkina Faso and the United Nations said the attack, which killed more than 130 people earlier this month, was carried out primarily by minors aged 12 to 14.

On June 4, gunmen stormed the village of Solhan, shooting villagers and setting fire to their homes.

In Burkina Faso, jihadists have used child soldiers to carry out attacks.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Burkina Faso Massacre: Biggest attack in country's history

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/burkina-faso-massacre-biggest-attack-in-countrys-history-389698/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The attackers had struck during the night, killing residents of the village of Solhan in Yagha province, bordering Niger. They also burned homes and the market, the government said in a statement.

Despite the presence of thousands of UN&nbsp;peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt.

The violence in Burkina Faso has displaced more than 1.14 million people in just over two years, while the poor, arid country is hosting some 20,000 refugees from neighbouring Mali.

The latest attack pushes the number killed by armed Islamists in the Sahel region to over 500 since January, according to Human Rights Watch's West Africa director, Corinne Dufka.

In March, attackers killed 137 people in coordinated raids on villages in southwestern Niger. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The government of Burkina Faso and the United Nations said the attack, which killed more than 130 people earlier this month, was carried out primarily by minors aged 12 to 14.

The government of Burkina Faso and the United Nations said the attack, which killed more than 130 people earlier this month, was carried out primarily by minors aged 12 to 14. On June 4, gunmen stormed the village of Solhan, shooting villagers and setting fire to their homes. In Burkina Faso, jihadists have used child soldiers to carry out attacks. Watch | Burkina Faso Massacre: Biggest attack in country's history The attackers had struck during the night, killing residents of the village of Solhan in Yagha province, bordering Niger. They also burned homes and the market, the government said in a statement. Despite the presence of thousands of UN peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt. The violence in Burkina Faso has displaced more than 1.14 million people in just over two years, while the poor, arid country is hosting some 20,000 refugees from neighbouring Mali. The latest attack pushes the number killed by armed Islamists in the Sahel region to over 500 since January, according to Human Rights Watch's West Africa director, Corinne Dufka. In March, attackers killed 137 people in coordinated raids on villages in southwestern Niger. (With inputs from agencies)

Children aged 12 to 14 carried out the attack that killed over 130 in Burkina Faso

Two years after local emir Djibril Diallo fled his home in northern Burkina Faso following death threats from Islamist militants, he received an unexpected request: to return and take part in peace talks with the same people who wanted him dead.

Adama Ouedraogo, deputy mayor of Diallo's hometown of Thiou, called him in January to help negotiate an end to years of attacks by jihadists against local militias and civilians that forced thousands of people to flee the area.

"I told them that if everyone was sincere, I could return," said Diallo, a traditional chief to Fulani herders.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-132-civilians-killed-in-burkina-fasos-worst-attack-in-years-389688">At least 132 civilians killed in Burkina Faso's worst attack in years</a>

For a decade, West African armies and their international allies have fought against militant groups active in the Sahel region, some linked to the al Qaeda and Islamic State networks.

They have had limited success. Attacks on civilians still occur most weeks and large areas remain outside government control. Hundreds of soldiers have been killed since militants first seized control of swathes of Mali in 2012.

Now, in the worst-hit parts of Burkina Faso and neighbouring Mali, local leaders are pursuing unofficial talks with militants. The governments do not publicly acknowledge the discussions, but five sources involved in them told Reuters the authorities have been quietly supportive.

Military ally and former colonial power France, which has 5,100 troops in the region supporting local forces, says the militants will exploit truces to regroup, rearm and recruit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-african-countries-in-huddle-over-situation-in-mali-388446">West African countries in huddle over situation in Mali</a>

President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his opposition to talks on Thursday, telling reporters that French troops would not conduct joint operations with countries that "decide to negotiate with groups that ... shoot at our children".

Yet there are tentative signs that the outreach may be helping stem bloodshed in localities where it is happening.

Data collected by the US-based Armed Conflict Location &amp; Event Data Project (ACLED) for the Nord, Sahel and Boucle de Mouhoun regions show significant reductions in conflict-related fatalities, although other factors, including recent military offensives, could have played a role.

In the Nord, the number of deaths from battles and violence against civilians dropped from 65 in the first quarter of 2020 to 26 in the first quarter of 2021. In the Sahel, they fell from 487 to 191 and in the Boucle de Mouhoun, from 66 to zero.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/burkina-faso-massacre-biggest-attack-in-countrys-history-389698/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Mahamadou Sawadogo, a researcher on security issues and former Burkinabe gendarme, said such truces had led to an easing of violence but cautioned that their scope was limited to specific localities.

A June 4-5 attack on Solhan village near the border with Niger, in which at least 132 people died, underlined how dangerous the region remains. The village was not known to have negotiated an agreement with jihadists.

In Thiou, located on an expanse of arid scrubland about 20 km from the Malian border, Diallo and others struck a truce in February with militants who say they are connected to al Qaeda's regional JNIM affiliate.

Commerce is flowing freely again and thousands of displaced people have returned, Diallo said.

Idrissa Diallo, a restaurant owner in town who is not related to Djibril Diallo but shares a last name common among Fulanis, fled to Ivory Coast in 2019 after the jihadists began clashing with local vigilante groups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-whats-happening-in-mali-right-now-387269">Explainer | What's happening in Mali right now?</a>

He came home following the talks.

"Calm has been restored," he said, shifting small pieces of meat and onions over smouldering charcoals. "I started to work a little, and there are lots of clients who come."

Secret Meetings

The first meetings took place in December in the secrecy of a forest outside Thiou, in Burkina Faso's Nord region, according to deputy mayor Ouedraogo.

They were organised by Ouedraogo, who said he had kept in touch with some people who joined the militants. He was accompanied by the head of a group of volunteer fighters who are backed by the army and oppose the jihadists.

"At the start of the negotiations, it wasn't at all easy," Ouedraogo recalled. "The jihadists came with lots of weapons."

They met seven times before both sides agreed to more formal talks. Ouedraogo informed the mayor, village chiefs and Diallo, an authoritative figure among Fulani herdsmen whom the jihadists considered a worthy interlocutor despite having threatened him.

Diallo joined the process and, after another meeting, jihadists reported back to their superiors, he said.

Thiou's mayor updated the regional governor, a federal government appointee, according to Diallo and two others who participated in the talks but asked not to be named.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-army-chief-protests-un-bias-in-report-over-mali-strikes-386743">France army chief protests UN 'bias' in report over Mali strikes</a>

The mayor declined to comment when asked about the contacts, and the governor did not respond to requests for comment. A government spokesperson said the negotiations were a local initiative and declined to respond to specific questions.

Then, in February, about 400 jihadist fighters, including some from Mali where al Qaeda's powerful JNIM branch is based, came to seal the peace, said Ouedraogo.

The jihadists' main condition was that the volunteer fighters, whom the jihadists accused of stealing motorcycles and cattle and killing civilians suspected of sympathising with the&nbsp;Islamists, cease their patrols.

The negotiators agreed and allowed the jihadists and their family members to trade at the market and receive medical care in town, according to Ouedraogo and Diallo.

The jihadists vowed to cease attacks and to lift blockades.

French Opposition

Authorities have been constrained by French opposition to negotiating with militants, said a source involved in talks in Burkina Faso and Mali, adding that time was of the essence while contact with militants appeared to be bearing fruit.

At a news conference on Thursday where he announced France would end its military operation in the Sahel and incorporate its forces into a broader international campaign, Macron threatened to stop working with countries that negotiate with jihadists.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-announces-major-troop-drawdown-from-sahel-region-in-africa-390703">Macron announces major troop drawdown from Sahel region in Africa</a>

"I don't know how to explain to the parents of a French soldier who fell on the battlefield that I am sending back his brothers in arms to fight alongside an army that has decided to negotiate with his assailants," Macron said.

Decrying "ambiguity" on the matter, Macron said one condition for France to resume joint military operations with Mali's army - suspended after a coup last month - would be a Malian commitment not to negotiate with the militants.

Mali's leaders have publicly endorsed the idea of talks, but they have kept concrete moves to pursue negotiations quiet.

In the Niono Circle in central Mali, representatives of the High Islamic Council (HCI), the country's main Muslim body, led negotiations earlier this year with al Qaeda-linked militants that resulted in a peace deal in March, said Bocary Diallo, one of the HCI negotiators.

Diallo said the organisation was given the go-ahead at a meeting attended by religious leaders and four government ministers, but that the government never officially signed off on it.

Mali's presidency and the ministry of national reconciliation did not respond to requests for comment.

Two years after local emir Djibril Diallo fled his home in northern Burkina Faso following death threats from Islamist militants, he received an unexpected request: to return and take part in peace talks with the same people who wanted him dead.

Two years after local emir Djibril Diallo fled his home in northern Burkina Faso following death threats from Islamist militants, he received an unexpected request: to return and take part in peace talks with the same people who wanted him dead. Adama Ouedraogo, deputy mayor of Diallo's hometown of Thiou, called him in January to help negotiate an end to years of attacks by jihadists against local militias and civilians that forced thousands of people to flee the area. "I told them that if everyone was sincere, I could return," said Diallo, a traditional chief to Fulani herders. Also read | At least 132 civilians killed in Burkina Faso's worst attack in years For a decade, West African armies and their international allies have fought against militant groups active in the Sahel region, some linked to the al Qaeda and Islamic State networks. They have had limited success. Attacks on civilians still occur most weeks and large areas remain outside government control. Hundreds of soldiers have been killed since militants first seized control of swathes of Mali in 2012. Now, in the worst-hit parts of Burkina Faso and neighbouring Mali, local leaders are pursuing unofficial talks with militants. The governments do not publicly acknowledge the discussions, but five sources involved in them told Reuters the authorities have been quietly supportive. Military ally and former colonial power France, which has 5,100 troops in the region supporting local forces, says the militants will exploit truces to regroup, rearm and recruit. Also read | West African countries in huddle over situation in Mali President Emmanuel Macron reiterated his opposition to talks on Thursday, telling reporters that French troops would not conduct joint operations with countries that "decide to negotiate with groups that ... shoot at our children". Yet there are tentative signs that the outreach may be helping stem bloodshed in localities where it is happening. Data collected by the US-based Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) for the Nord, Sahel and Boucle de Mouhoun regions show significant reductions in conflict-related fatalities, although other factors, including recent military offensives, could have played a role. In the Nord, the number of deaths from battles and violence against civilians dropped from 65 in the first quarter of 2020 to 26 in the first quarter of 2021. In the Sahel, they fell from 487 to 191 and in the Boucle de Mouhoun, from 66 to zero. Mahamadou Sawadogo, a researcher on security issues and former Burkinabe gendarme, said such truces had led to an easing of violence but cautioned that their scope was limited to specific localities. A June 4-5 attack on Solhan village near the border with Niger, in which at least 132 people died, underlined how dangerous the region remains. The village was not known to have negotiated an agreement with jihadists. In Thiou, located on an expanse of arid scrubland about 20 km from the Malian border, Diallo and others struck a truce in February with militants who say they are connected to al Qaeda's regional JNIM affiliate. Commerce is flowing freely again and thousands of displaced people have returned, Diallo said. Idrissa Diallo, a restaurant owner in town who is not related to Djibril Diallo but shares a last name common among Fulanis, fled to Ivory Coast in 2019 after the jihadists began clashing with local vigilante groups. Also read | Explainer | What's happening in Mali right now? He came home following the talks. "Calm has been restored," he said, shifting small pieces of meat and onions over smouldering charcoals. "I started to work a little, and there are lots of clients who come." Secret Meetings The first meetings took place in December in the secrecy of a forest outside Thiou, in Burkina Faso's Nord region, according to deputy mayor Ouedraogo. They were organised by Ouedraogo, who said he had kept in touch with some people who joined the militants. He was accompanied by the head of a group of volunteer fighters who are backed by the army and oppose the jihadists. "At the start of the negotiations, it wasn't at all easy," Ouedraogo recalled. "The jihadists came with lots of weapons." They met seven times before both sides agreed to more formal talks. Ouedraogo informed the mayor, village chiefs and Diallo, an authoritative figure among Fulani herdsmen whom the jihadists considered a worthy interlocutor despite having threatened him. Diallo joined the process and, after another meeting, jihadists reported back to their superiors, he said. Thiou's mayor updated the regional governor, a federal government appointee, according to Diallo and two others who participated in the talks but asked not to be named. Also read | France army chief protests UN 'bias' in report over Mali strikes The mayor declined to comment when asked about the contacts, and the governor did not respond to requests for comment. A government spokesperson said the negotiations were a local initiative and declined to respond to specific questions. Then, in February, about 400 jihadist fighters, including some from Mali where al Qaeda's powerful JNIM branch is based, came to seal the peace, said Ouedraogo. The jihadists' main condition was that the volunteer fighters, whom the jihadists accused of stealing motorcycles and cattle and killing civilians suspected of sympathising with the Islamists, cease their patrols. The negotiators agreed and allowed the jihadists and their family members to trade at the market and receive medical care in town, according to Ouedraogo and Diallo. The jihadists vowed to cease attacks and to lift blockades. French Opposition Authorities have been constrained by French opposition to negotiating with militants, said a source involved in talks in Burkina Faso and Mali, adding that time was of the essence while contact with militants appeared to be bearing fruit. At a news conference on Thursday where he announced France would end its military operation in the Sahel and incorporate its forces into a broader international campaign, Macron threatened to stop working with countries that negotiate with jihadists. Also read | Macron announces major troop drawdown from Sahel region in Africa "I don't know how to explain to the parents of a French soldier who fell on the battlefield that I am sending back his brothers in arms to fight alongside an army that has decided to negotiate with his assailants," Macron said. Decrying "ambiguity" on the matter, Macron said one condition for France to resume joint military operations with Mali's army - suspended after a coup last month - would be a Malian commitment not to negotiate with the militants. Mali's leaders have publicly endorsed the idea of talks, but they have kept concrete moves to pursue negotiations quiet. In the Niono Circle in central Mali, representatives of the High Islamic Council (HCI), the country's main Muslim body, led negotiations earlier this year with al Qaeda-linked militants that resulted in a peace deal in March, said Bocary Diallo, one of the HCI negotiators. Diallo said the organisation was given the go-ahead at a meeting attended by religious leaders and four government ministers, but that the government never officially signed off on it. Mali's presidency and the ministry of national reconciliation did not respond to requests for comment.

With military victory elusive, West African nations quietly back talks with Islamists

The death toll from the worst militant attack in Burkina Faso in recent years has risen to 132, the government said on Saturday, after armed assailants laid siege overnight to a village in the jihadist-plagued northeast. 
 
The attackers struck during the night on Friday, killing residents of the village of Solhan in Yagha province, bordering Niger. They also burned homes and the market, the government said in a statement. 
 
It declared a 72-hour period of national mourning, describing the attackers as terrorists, although no group has claimed responsibility. Another 40 residents were wounded, government spokesperson Ousseni Tamboura later told reporters. 
 
The United Nations said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was outraged by the attack, whose victims included seven children. 
 
Despite the presence of thousands of UN&nbsp;peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt. 
 
The violence in Burkina Faso has displaced more than 1.14 million people in just over two years, while the poor, arid country is hosting some 20,000 refugees from neighbouring Mali. 
 
The latest attack pushes the number killed by armed Islamists in the Sahel region to over 500 since January, according to Human Rights Watch's West Africa director, Corinne Dufka. 
 
"The dynamic is the jihadists come in, they overpower the civil defence post and engage in collective punishment against the rest of the village - it's a pattern we've seen everywhere this year," Dufka said. 
 
In March, attackers killed 137 people in coordinated raids on villages in southwestern Niger. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

The death toll from the worst militant attack in Burkina Faso in recent years has risen to 132, the government said on Saturday, after armed assailants laid siege overnight to a village in the jihadist-plagued northeast.

The death toll from the worst militant attack in Burkina Faso in recent years has risen to 132, the government said on Saturday, after armed assailants laid siege overnight to a village in the jihadist-plagued northeast. The attackers struck during the night on Friday, killing residents of the village of Solhan in Yagha province, bordering Niger. They also burned homes and the market, the government said in a statement. It declared a 72-hour period of national mourning, describing the attackers as terrorists, although no group has claimed responsibility. Another 40 residents were wounded, government spokesperson Ousseni Tamboura later told reporters. The United Nations said Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was outraged by the attack, whose victims included seven children. Despite the presence of thousands of UN peacekeepers, attacks by jihadists linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in West Africa's Sahel region have risen sharply since the start of the year, particularly in Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger, with civilians bearing the brunt. The violence in Burkina Faso has displaced more than 1.14 million people in just over two years, while the poor, arid country is hosting some 20,000 refugees from neighbouring Mali. The latest attack pushes the number killed by armed Islamists in the Sahel region to over 500 since January, according to Human Rights Watch's West Africa director, Corinne Dufka. "The dynamic is the jihadists come in, they overpower the civil defence post and engage in collective punishment against the rest of the village - it's a pattern we've seen everywhere this year," Dufka said. In March, attackers killed 137 people in coordinated raids on villages in southwestern Niger. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 132 civilians killed in Burkina Faso's worst attack in years

In the deadliest massacre in the West African country Burkina Faso since the year 2015, at least 138 civilians have been slaughtered by Islamist jihadists.

Burkina Faso Massacre: Biggest attack in country's history

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