US condemns killing of civilians in Nigerian villages

The United States "strongly condemns" the killing of dozens of civilians in the village of Demba and the August 10 attack on worshipers at a mosque in Maiduguri perpetrated by violent extremists, reportedly affiliated with Boko Haram, the US State Department said on Monday evening. "We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those killed and concern for those wounded," said state department deputy spokeswoman Marie Harf. The United States stands with the people of Nigeria to reject the indiscriminate attacks on worshipers of all faiths, Harf said. "We also deplore the extra-judicial executions of suspected Boko Haram members by any group, including vigilante mobs," she added. "Such violence has no place anywhere." The United States continues to support the aspirations of the people of Nigeria who desire stability, security and peace, Harf said. "We support the government of Nigeria as it seeks to safeguard civilians and hold accountable all those responsible for violence through a process that protects civilians and respects the rule of law," she said.