OIC condemns armed Attack on Splendid Hotel in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

JEDDAH, 16th January, 2016 (WAM) -- The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has condemned the attack carried out by gunmen on the "Splendid Hotel" in Ouagadougou, capital of Burkina Faso, which claimed the lives of at least 20 people and the abduction of hostages among the hotel residents.
The OIC is following the situation with deep concern and expressed the hope that the investigations would soon lead to those standing behind this criminal act, and that they would be successfully tracked down and receive their deserved punishment.
The OIC Secretary General, Iyad Ameen Madani, expressed his profound grief in the face of the armed attack witnessed in Ouagadougou to disrupt stability there, particularly following the democratic transition the country has achieved after the recent elections.
The Secretary-General commended the efforts of the Burkinabe security forces who have demonstrated exemplary valour and patriotism and affirmed their capacity to effect timely intervention, stand up to such a heinous assault and achieve the release of the 30 hostages held by the armed aggressors.
The Secretary General expressed his deep profound condolences to the families of the victims of these tragic events, along with his best wishes of prompt recovery to the wounded. He also expressed his confidence in the capacity of the Burkinabe Government to reassure its citizens and provide the necessary security to prevent the country’s return, in any form, to the pre-elections status.
Madani further insisted that such criminal acts that have come to reach any part of the world require greater concerted efforts to investigate their causes, prevent their development, reduce their danger and protect the innocent citizens who are entitled to a peaceful and secure living.