Burundi: Grenade attack in Gitega April 1

Event

A grenade attack targeting a bar in Gitega killed two people and wounded 14 others at approximately 20:30 (local time) on Sunday, April 1. According to local sources, the victims were all members of the Imbonerakure, a government-backed militia. Four suspects were later arrested by the police.

Context

Political violence persists throughout Burundi in the aftermath of the country's contested July 2015 elections. The situation remains particularly fraught in Bujumbura, where the likelihood of politically motivated outbreaks of violence remains high. A grenade attack against opposition supporters injured five people in Bujumbura in December 2017.

Advice

Individuals present in Burundi should avoid all public gatherings and demonstrations, especially those with no visible security presence, and maintain a high level of vigilance at all times. Be extremely vigilant in crowded places such as churches, markets, cafés, and bus stations.

In general, individuals in Burundi - especially in Bujumbura - are advised to remain vigilant due to a significant risk of criminal activity. Avoid traveling by foot after nightfall, keep only small amounts of cash on hand, park in a secured parking lot close to one's destination, and drive with doors locked, windows rolled up, and with valuables hidden from sight. Keep a phone charged and on hand at all times.