9 killed in Burkina Faso attacks

OUAGADOUGOU: At least nine civilians have been killed in twin attacks in eastern Burkina Faso, a poor West African country where militants have been gaining ground in recent months, authorities said on Saturday.

“Two terror attacks were carried out in the villages of Diabiga and Kompienbiga overnight Friday in eastern Kompienga province,” the regional governor said.

One of the attacks had targeted the home of a Islamic religious leader and other Muslims.

“Five people, including the leader were killed,” he said, adding that three others were injured in the attack.

One of the injured later succumbed to his wounds.

Meanwhile, “three people belonging to the same family were killed and another two injured by suspected militants on mopeds,” according to another security source.

Since 2015, Burkina Faso has battled increased violence of the sort that plagues neighbouring Mali and Niger.

Experts say the recent surge is likely the result of pressure on insurgents there.

The capital here has been hit by three attacks over the past two years leaving 60 people dead.