Audio By Carbonatix
Fifty-three members of Burkina Faso's security forces have died in heavy clashes with Islamist militants, the army has said.
The fatalities occurred on Monday while the forces were repelling an "attack" by jihadists, a statement released the following day said.
The fighting had taken place in the northern Yatenga province, where the army has been trying to reclaim territory.
Extremists linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group have been carrying out frequent attacks in Burkina Faso since 2015.
Several militants in Monday's clash had been "neutralised" in a counter-operation, the army said, while fatalities on the military's side comprised of 17 soldiers and 36 civilian volunteers.
Last year, two military coups were carried out in Burkina Faso. Like in neighbouring Mali and Niger, the soldiers' key reason for seizing power was the growing threat from jihadists.
None of the three military regimes have so far managed to reduce the violence.
Latest Stories
-
Ghana to announce World Cup squad on June 1 – Kurt Okraku
1 hour -
Panic in Sunyani: Chiefs to perform rituals after mystery deaths of two successive headteachers
3 hours -
The party has lost ground – Paul Afoko breaks long silence to launch NPP comeback
3 hours -
“It is worrying” – Prof. Akosa sounds alarm over failing medical ethics
4 hours -
World Cup reality check: Mexico beat fringe Black Stars 2-0 in Puebla friendly
4 hours -
Black Stars lose 2-0 to Mexico in pre-World Cup friendly in Puebla
5 hours -
Free speech: MFWA slams ‘weaponisation’ of state laws
5 hours -
Senegal president sacks PM Sonko, dissolves government after months of friction
6 hours -
NITA defends ICT fees, rejects claims of ‘digital coup’
6 hours -
UN releases $60m from central fund to tackle lethal Ebola outbreak
6 hours -
“Put people first” – Vice-President tells global financial giants at ACI Congress
8 hours -
Vice-President commissions 100 new Metro Mass buses
9 hours -
“You do not need my permission” – Bagbin clears misconception over arresting MPs
9 hours -
Ice baths, almond milk, meditation and a ‘house like a hospital’: The secrets of Salah’s success
9 hours -
Lupita Nyong’o rejects criticism of Helen of Troy role
10 hours