Over 100 Soldiers Killed in Burkina Faso Attack Amidst Mutiny Rumors

A devastating attack on an army base in Burkina Faso, allegedly killing over 100 soldiers, has sparked rumors of unrest within the security forces. The country has been under military rule since 2022 and has been grappling with Islamist insurgents for several years, with nearly half the country beyond government control.

The junta has remained silent on the attack, but denied any mutiny. The jihadist group Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for the attack on Mansila on June 11.

Reports suggest that dozens of soldiers were killed, and many others went missing. A video released by JNIM showed a large cache of weapons and ammunition allegedly captured during the assault.

A day after the Mansila attack, a rocket struck the parking area of the state TV broadcaster, Radiotélévision Burkinabé (RTB), in the capital, Ouagadougou. RTB described the incident as a “shooting incident” resulting in minor injuries.

Rumors of a mutiny within the military have been circulating, fueled by frustration over the government’s inability to contain the security crisis. The junta came to power promising to end the jihadist insurgency, but the situation has worsened since they took over in 2022.

The junta has strengthened ties with Russia after expelling French troops, accusing them of not doing enough to combat jihadist groups.

The authorities have remained tight-lipped about the attacks, possibly due to the sensitive nature of military setbacks. Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the junta leader, has kept a low profile since the Mansila attack, only appearing in public three days later to donate blood.

The junta has denied reports of military discontent, labeling them as misleading and aimed at sowing doubt.

The public has criticized Captain Traoré and his government for their handling of the security crisis. Some social media users expressed shock at the scale of the militant attack and the lack of communication from the authorities. Others defended the junta, accusing “jealous forces” of attempting to destabilize Burkina Faso.

The attacks occurred a week after Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Burkina Faso, announcing plans to send more military instructors. Russia has reportedly taken steps to ensure Captain Traoré’s administration remains stable, including sending more Russian mercenaries to protect the Burkinabè leader.