Burkina Faso: IED blast kills three civilians in Nataboani July 23

Event

On Thursday, July 23, at least three civilians were killed after an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Nataboani (Kompienga province, Est region). Media sources state the three victims on board a cart struck the roadside IED. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

The incident comes several days after two Burkinabe soldiers were killed and five others wounded in an attack carried out by unidentified armed men against military positions in the Komondjari province also located in the Est region on Sunday, July 19.

Further militant attacks are possible the region over the near term.

Context

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 relating 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.