Burkina Faso: Over 60 killed in multiple attacks in Soum and Boulgou provinces /update 1

Event

The Burkinabe government released a statement on Wednesday, April 3, confirming the deaths of at least 62 people in recent violence in various parts of the country. According to local government officials, at least 30 people died in intercommunal violence and 32 were killed by jihadists operating in the region.  Intercommunal clashes broke out in Soum province on Sunday, March 31, when a religious leader and six members of his family were killed by unidentified men in Arbinda. Multiple retaliatory attacks on Monday, April 1, were reported in the Arbinda area. Also on Sunday night, another royal family was targeted in the Zoaga area of Boulgou province, resulting in at least nine fatalities. The attackers are believed to have crossed the border from Ghana.

Context

Terrorism has become an increasingly severe security threat in Burkina Faso since 2015, with educational institutions, local government officials, and security forces being specifically targeted. While initially concentrated in the Sahel region, attacks have spread to other regions, including eastern Burkina Faso (Est region) which is also known for its high crime rates. Attacks are usually attributed to Ansarul Islam and other groups affiliated with al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments to the security situation and remain vigilant for criminal and militant activity.

Due to the severe threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso - including the capital Ouagadougou - are strongly advised to maintain discretion regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times, and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.