Burkina Faso: Unidentified militants kill six in two attacks in north October 22

Event

Unidentified militants carried out two attacks on Burkinabe security forces in the Barsalogho commune (Sanmatenga province) on Tuesday, October 22. The assailants reportedly killed five soldiers and wounded four others in a first attack targeting a military patrol in Guindbila. One soldier was also killed in an ambush in the Sidogo village.

Similar militant attacks targeting security forces are possible in northern Burkina Faso over the near term.

Context

Burkina Faso declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions 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, obey local regulations (e.g. state of emergency orders), and remain vigilant for criminal and militant activity.

Due to 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.