Burkina Faso: Unidentified gunmen kill six in Bam province October 1

Event

Unidentified gunmen killed at least six people in an attack targeting the village of Kargo located in the Bam province overnight on Monday, September 30 - Tuesday, October 1.

Similar attacks are possible in the area over the coming weeks.

Context

This attack is the latest in a spate of attacks which occurred in the area in recent weeks, in which more than 20 civilians have been killed.

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 Burkina Faso east 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 the north of the country 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.