Burkina Faso Army Linked to March Massacre of Civilians

(Nairobi) – At least 130 civilians were killed in March 2025 by Burkina Faso’s army and pro-government militias in the western town of Solenzo, according to a report released by Human Rights Watch (HRW). The massacre was part of a military operation that disproportionately targeted the Fulani ethnic group, leading to mass displacement.

The attacks occurred during the “Green Whirlwind 2” operation, which was a campaign carried out by Burkinabè special forces. Witnesses reported military involvement in the violence, with soldiers and militia members participating in the killings. Videos of the atrocities sparked outrage across the Sahel region.

Ilaria Allegrozzi, HRW’s senior Sahel researcher, noted the shocking nature of the footage, stating, “Further research uncovered that Burkina Faso’s military was responsible for these mass killings of Fulani civilians.” She urged the government to investigate the incidents and hold those responsible accountable.

Between March 14 and April 22, HRW interviewed 27 witnesses, militia members, and journalists regarding the violence. Many survivors described fleeing their homes after being attacked by the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDPs) and government forces.

A Fulani herder from Solenzo recounted his harrowing experience, saying, “We couldn’t reach Mali without crossing villages occupied by the VDPs and the army. The VDPs shot at us like animals.” Witnesses also reported that the majority of victims were women and children.

According to HRW’s findings, between 100 and 200 additional civilians were killed in retaliatory attacks by the Islamist group JNIM, which targeted villages suspected of aiding the military. The group’s actions resulted in further escalation of violence against local populations.

Witness testimonies and video evidence have pointed to the use of military helicopters and drones during the operations, indicating the high level of coordination. The situation has led to fears of further reprisals, with many Fulani families fleeing to Mali for safety.

Allegrozzi emphasized the urgent need for international attention, stating, “The United Nations Security Council and the African Union should act to protect civilians still at grave risk due to the ongoing atrocities in Burkina Faso.”