ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) - In a large-scale clash that unfolded on Sunday, hundreds of rebels were reportedly killed as they tried to seize control of Djibo town near Mali's border in northern Burkina Faso. The state broadcaster has described this incident as one of the most significant clashes in recent years, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by fighters linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State in the West African nation.

According to the state broadcaster's report on Tuesday, over 3,000 fighters were involved in the attempt to capture the town. The exact number of civilian and security force casualties remains unknown at this time. Djibo town is situated in an area that experiences frequent internet cuts, and the military government is often criticized for its crackdown on civil society.

Burkina Faso has been grappling with a significant portion of its territory being outside the control of the government. The landlocked country has been ravaged by jihadi attacks, with thousands killed and over 2 million people displaced, exacerbating the nation's stability following two coups last year.

Detailing the events, the government press agency Agence d'Information du Burkina has reported that the rebels launched a series of "massive attacks" on Djibo town from multiple directions during an hourslong assault. The military camp was also targeted in this offensive. Security forces responded by engaging with the rebels, resulting in the killing of at least 400 fighters, according to the press agency.

"The fighting was particularly violent at the military camp of the locality. The combined action of ground troops and air support led to a significant defeat of the criminals," reported the press agency, emphasizing the successful counteroffensive of the security forces.

Burkina Faso's junta, which had seized power through a coup, has been grappling with the challenging task of restoring peace and stability in the nation. The junta had cited the failure of the democratically elected government, which they overthrew, in addressing the country's security issues as one of the reasons behind their takeover.

As Burkina Faso continues to face the growing threat of extremist violence, the government's efforts to regain control and implement lasting peace remain paramount to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens and the overall stability of the nation.