Burkina Faso army officers patrol near a French armored vehicle parked in Kaya, capital of Burkina Faso's north-central region on Nov 20, 2021. (PHOTO / AFP)

OUAGADOUGOU - At least 15 people were killed on Sunday in an attack on a Catholic church in the village of Essakane in the Sahel region of northern Burkina Faso, a church official said in a statement.

"We bring to your attention the terrorist attack to which the Catholic community of the Essakane village fell victim today, Feb 25, as they gathered for Sunday prayer," said Jean-Pierre Sawadogo, vicar of the Catholic Diocese of Dori.

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The official added that at least 15 worshippers were killed, including 12 on the spot and three who later died of their wounds. Another two were injured.