Burkina Faso: Security incidents reported in Est and Sahel regions April 18-19

Event

A university bus reportedly struck a roadside improvised explosive device (IED) roughly 30 km (19 mi) outside the Boungou mine (Est region) on Thursday, April 18. Local sources indicate at least three people were wounded in the explosion. Additionally, unidentified militants attacked a gendarmerie position in Oudalan province (Sahel region) overnight (local time) on April 18-19; there were no immediate reports of casualties or claims of responsibility. 

Similar attacks are likely in the Est and Sahel regions over the near term. 

Context

Burkina Faso declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions on January 1. A nighttime curfew is also in effect in Est region at least through April 20.

Terrorism has become an increasingly severe security threat in Burkina Faso since 2015. Educational institutions, local government officials, and security forces are specifically targeted. Initially concentrated in the Sahel region, attacks have spread to other regions, including eastern Burkina Faso (Est region), which is also known for high crime rates. Attacks are typically 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 in northern Burkina Faso, adhere to applicable regulations (e.g. state of emergency orders), 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 be discreet 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.