Burkina Faso forces slaughter over 100 civilians in Solenzo attack

In March 2025, a devastating attack by Burkina Faso government forces resulted in the deaths of at least 100 civilians near the town of Solenzo in the western Boucle du Mouhoun region. The Human Rights Watch reported that the attack involved Burkina Faso's special forces and members of the pro-government militia known as the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland targeting the ethnic Fulani community, which the government has historically associated with supporting extremist militants. Eyewitness accounts and social media videos indicated that the assault began on February 27 and continued until April 2, involving hundreds of troops and drone support. Many victims were women and children, who were unable to escape, leading to a significant loss of life. Following the attack, reports revealed a mass exodus of Fulani residents fleeing to neighboring Mali, with many being killed, taken hostage, or forced to abandon their homes. A Fulani herder recounted tragic events where they were targeted “like animals” during the assault. The broader security context of Burkina Faso, a nation of approximately 23 million people, has been severely compromised due to years of violence from extremist groups aligned with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. The military junta, which assumed power in 2022, has failed to stabilize the country, and now more than 60% is reportedly out of government control, with millions displaced and in need of humanitarian aid. The attack initiated a cycle of violence, with jihadist group JNIM re-entering the areas after government forces had withdrawn. Reports describe reprisal killings carried out by JNIM against residents they deemed military collaborators, further escalating tensions between ethnic communities in the region. Witnesses documented brutal executions, highlighting the deteriorating security and humanitarian crises. Analysts believe that the military's strategies, particularly the recruitment of poorly trained civilian militia units, have worsened ethnic strife and insecurity in a country already suffering from longstanding issues. Calls for accountability and impartial investigations of the mass killings have been met with government denials, complicating the path to justice and reconciliation. Moreover, the episode underscores the grave humanitarian outlook for Burkina Faso, where millions struggle to survive amid conflict and instability. Urgent international attention is required to address the ongoing crisis and to seek a resolution to restore peace and security in the region.