Burkina Faso: US embassy warns of criminal activity in Ouagadougou’s Bangr Weogo Park August 9

Event

The US embassy in Ouagadougou issued a security message on Sunday, August 9, warning of increased criminal activity in the city's Bangr Weogo Park. At least two armed robberies have been reported in the park since Friday, with the latest incidents occurring in daylight.

Further criminal activity is likely in the Bangr Weogo Park in the near term, with a realistic possibility of increased police operations in the area.

Context

Criminal activity poses a significant risk to travelers in Ouagadougou, driven by widespread poverty and limited law enforcement capabilities in the capital. The main threat to foreign nationals comes from opportunistic crime such as pickpocketing, bag-snatching, and the theft of unattended items. However, many criminals carry knives and may be quick to resort to violence, particularly if victims attempt to resist robbery attempts. Incidents of bag-snatchings and muggings have been reported in the areas around the UN Circle, the central market, and on Avenue Kwame Nkrumah. In particular, foreign nationals have frequently been targeted in the Zone du Bois area of the city, although any areas frequented by foreign nationals are considered vulnerable to criminal activity.

Advice

Those in Ouagadougou are advised to exercise increased vigilance in the Bangr Weogo Park area, minimize pedestrian movement at night, and report any suspicious activity to security forces. Monitor local media sources to remain apprised of security-related developments and adhere to any directives issued by local authorities.