The United Nations has strongly condemned a brutal attack on a mosque in Kokorou village, western Niger, where 44 worshippers were killed, and 20 others were injured.

According to reports, armed militants from the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), a group linked to ISIL, surrounded Fambita Mosque last Friday and opened fire on worshippers during Friday prayers. After the attack, they burned down a market and several homes.

Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, described the attack as a deliberate act meant to cause massive civilian casualties. He emphasized that such violence violates international human rights and humanitarian laws. Turk also called for an independent investigation to hold the attackers accountable.

This attack highlights the growing insecurity in the Sahel region. In recent years, violence has increased as extremist groups linked to ISIL and al-Qaeda have expanded their control, especially after armed groups took over parts of northern Mali in 2012.

The UN continues to urge stronger efforts to restore peace and protect civilians in the region.