Berlin: The head of the UN human rights office called on Saturday for an immediate and transparent investigation into the deaths of at least 28 people whose bodies were found in northwestern Burkina Faso last month.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, described as encouraging the announcement of an investigation by authorities into the incident in the predominantly Muslim and Fulani city of Nuna.

In a statement, he urged them to ensure that it is prompt, thorough, fair and transparent and that all of them, regardless of position or rank, are held accountable. No less is owed to the victims and their loved ones, he continued.

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According to regional human rights organizations, volunteer militias assisting Burkina Faso's army are accused of killing dozens of Fulani civilians, including children. Because they are believed to be supporting the Islamic extremist insurgents who have been wreaking havoc on the West African nation for years, the Fulani people have come under increasing attack from the military and local defense militias.

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According to the United Nations Human Rights Office, Turki had previously expressed concern to the government about alleged wrongdoings "relating to the recruitment, arming and deployment of auxiliaries in Burkina Faso".

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According to the Geneva-based office, there is an urgent need to strengthen their pre-deployment training in international human rights and humanitarian law, their efficient monitoring by the security and defense forces, and ensuring inclusiveness and transparency during their recruitment.