An attack on a military base in northern Burkina Faso has reportedly left around 50 soldiers dead, according to local sources. The assault occurred on Monday in Dargo, located in Boulsa province, and is believed to have been carried out by Jama’at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a jihadist group affiliated with al-Qaeda.
Two sources, a community leader and a resident, told The Associated Press that approximately 100 militants stormed the base, killing soldiers before burning and looting the facility. Both spoke on condition of anonymity, citing fear of retaliation from the military.
The military government has not issued any official statement regarding the attack, reports ABC News.
Attack on military base in Burkina Faso kills about 50 soldiers, residents say | AP News https://t.co/urCP8sD4j1
— Colin P. Clarke (@ColinPClarke) August 2, 2025
JNIM is one of several extremist groups operating in West Africa, responsible for hundreds of military and civilian casualties. Much of Burkina Faso, particularly areas outside the capital, remains under militant control.
The country’s deteriorating security situation has triggered multiple coups, most recently bringing Captain Ibrahim Traoré to power. Despite promises of reform, his administration has struggled to contain escalating jihadist violence.
