Burkina Faso: Unidentified assailants kill at least 10 police officers near Barsalogho, Centre-Nord Region, June 21

Event

Unidentified assailants killed at least 10 police officers in an ambush near Barsalogho, Centre-Nord Region, June 21. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.

A heightened security presence is likely in the Barsalogho area over the coming days. Further attacks on security forces are likely in northern Burkina Faso over the medium term.

Context

The raid underscores the severe insecurity and risk of militant attacks across much of Burkina Faso. Furthermore, Islamist militants operating in the tri-border area (i.e., near the shared borders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso) continue to perpetrate similar attacks and are usually the primary suspects. Armed bandits have also contributed to the deteriorating security environment.

Advice

Avoid the area due to possible ongoing security operations and the high risk of militant violence. Heed the advice of security officials. Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling in the area. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.