Burkina Faso: Curfew extension in Est region as of July 5 /update 2

Event

On Friday, July 5, regional governor Lieutenant-Colonel Saïdou T.P. Sanou extended an ongoing night-time curfew in Est region until Thursday, September 5, amid growing insecurity and militant activity in the area. The curfew will run from 19:30 to 04:00 (local time), except in Fada N'Gourma, the regional capital, where it will be in effect from 00:00 to 04:00. Continued clashes between security forces and militants as well as a heightened security presence are expected in the region in the coming weeks.

Context

The governor of the Est region imposed a regional night-time curfew in March 2019. Burkina Faso declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions, including Est region, on January 1.

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 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 in Burkina Faso and 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.