Silgadji (Burkina Faso): In yet another instance of attacks on religious institutions, as many as six people were killed after gunmen opened fire at congregants outside a Catholic church in Burkina Faso on Sunday.
According to media reports, around 20 gunmen fired indiscriminately when the people were returning from the church in the town of Dablo after offering prayer at 9 am (local time).
"These terrorist groups are now attacking religion with the macabre aim of dividing us," said a statement issued by the government.
However, no individual or group has so far claimed responsibility for the attack.
Recently, Islamist attacks have been frequent in the West African nation.
In December last year, the government declared a state of emergency in several northern provinces bordering Mali fearing attacks.
Recent attacks in Burkina Faso
- The latest shooting comes just two days after five teachers were shot dead by unknown assailants.
- In a similar incident, motorbike-borne attackers opened fire in a Protestant church on April 30, leaving six people dead including a pastor.