Burkina Faso: Militants ambush security forces in Yatenga province May 14

Event

Suspected jihadist militants ambushed a patrol of security forces and defense volunteers in Yatenga province (Nord region) on Thursday, May 14. According to security officials, the attack took place between the towns of Banh (Loroum province) and Bidi-Peulh (Yatenga province). At least two people were killed in the ambush and three others were wounded.

Further attacks are possible in Yatenga province in the coming days.

Context

Terrorism has become an increasingly severe security threat in Burkina Faso since 2015. Educational institutions, local government officials, and security forces have frequently been targeted. Initially concentrated in the Sahel region, attacks have spread to other regions since 2015; causing the death of more than 850 individuals and displacing nearly 840,000. Attacks are usually attributed to Ansarul Islam, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), as well as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS).

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments to the security situation in northern 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.