International Christian Concern reported that on Sunday 26 May, gunmen attacked the Catholic Church of Toulfe during mass. As they stormed the church, they opened fire on the gathered worshippers, killing four and injuring others. The government has so far only claimed that it is unknown terrorist groups from outside the country.

Bishop Justin Kientega of Ouahigouya said in a public statement, “The Christian community of Toulfe was the target of a terrorist attack which gathered for Sunday prayers. The attack left four of the faithful dead.”

This is the fourth attack like this in the past month. The first was on 28 April, targeting an Assemblies of God Church, which left 6 dead. The next was on 12 May at a Catholic Church, killing another 6. The third was on 13 May, killing 4 in a Catholic procession. All of these attacks have specifically targeted Christians acting out their faith by attending worship or holding a parade.

These attacks are likely being committed by Islamic extremists from outside the country, as the local Muslim and Christian populations in Burkina Faso have long existed peacefully.