YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon – At least 15 Catholics have been killed in a jihadist attack in Burkina Faso after insurgents opened fire inside a church during Sunday Mass.

The attack took place in Essakane village in the Dori Diocese of the country’s northeastern region on 25 February.

According to a statement signed by the Vicar General of the diocese, Father Jean-Pierre Sawadogo, 12 of the victims died instantly, three others died later from gunshot wounds.

“Let us also pray for the conversion of those who continue to sow death and desolation in our country,” Sawadogo said. “May our efforts of penance and prayer during this blessed season of Lent bring peace and security to our country.”