Comment by UN Human Rights Office spokesperson Seif Magango after at least 40 civilians killed by JNIM in Burkina Faso

We are appalled by the killing of dozens of civilians by JNIM armed elements in northern Burkina Faso on 26 November. Attacks on civilians are inexcusable and must stop, and those responsible must be held to account following thorough, impartial and independent investigations by the authorities.

A large number of Jamāʿat nuṣrat al-islām wal-muslimīn (JNIM) fighters attacked a military base, homes and Internally Displaced People’s camps in the city Djibo, in the Sahel region, killing at least 40 civilians and injuring more than 42. They also set fire to three IDP sites and 20 shops.

We restate our call on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, including by refraining from targeting civilians and civilian objects. Deliberately targeting civilians or individuals not taking direct part in hostilities constitutes a war crime.