Burkina Faso: Curfew in Sourou and Kossi provinces from November 15

Event

The regional governor for the Boucle du Mouhoun Region, imposed a night-time curfew in the province of Kossi and Sourou, to be effective from Friday, November 15, until further notice, amid growing insecurity and militant activity in the area. The curfew is from 19:00 to 06:00 (local time). During this period, restrictions on people's movements will be implemented, and the circulation of four-wheeled vehicles, two-wheelers, tricycles, and bicycles will be strictly forbidden. Ambulance traffic will be subject to a "laissez-passer" or a mission order.

A heightened security presence is expected in the area in the coming weeks. Further attacks are possible.

Context

A similar curfew was implemented in the Louroum province from October 15 until November 14. As of November 13, it remains unclear if the curfew will be extended. Other curfews implemented on October 21, remains in place in the Sahel and Centre-Nord regions. 

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 relevant authorities.