Burkina Faso: Over 100 suspected terrorists arrested in security operations

Event

According to a military spokesperson, Burkinabe soldiers arrested over 100 suspected terrorists during security operations in northern Burkina Faso from April 19 to April 27. In addition, large quantities of weapons and explosives were reportedly seized. Security operations are likely to continue in the Sahel, Nord, and Centre-Nord regions of Burkina Faso over the coming weeks.

Context

Terrorism has become an increasingly serious security threat in Burkina Faso, especially in the Sahel region, since 2015. Over 89 attacks and more than 134 related deaths have been recorded in the area. Attacks are usually attributed to Ansarul Islam and other groups affiliated with Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). Meanwhile, rates of criminal violence - much of which is interlinked with terrorist activity - have also recently increased.

Advice

Several Western governments advise against all travel to areas of the northern Sahel region in Burkina Faso, particularly areas within 40 km (25 mi) of the Malian border. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to traveling to these areas. More generally, individuals across the country are advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners due to the latent risk of terrorist activity and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.