18 Aug 2021 | 07:34 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Attack by unidentified gunmen kill at least 47 people near Arbinda in Soum Region, Aug. 18
Unidentified gunmen kill at least 47 near town of Arbinda, Soum Region, Burkina Faso, Aug. 18. Further attacks almost certain.
Event
Unidentified gunmen killed at least 47 people, including 14 Burkinabe soldiers, during an attack near the town of Arbinda in the Soum Region, August 18. An unknown number of people were also injured. At least 50 of the assailants also reportedly died in the assault. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the assault.
Similar attacks are almost certain to occur in Soum Region over the medium term due to pervasive insecurity. Heightened security operations are likely to continue in the area in the days ahead.
Context
The raid underscores the severe insecurity and risk of militant attacks across much of Burkina Faso. Islamist militants operating in the tri-border area (i.e., near the shared borders of Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso) continue to stage such attacks and are usually the primary suspects. Armed bandits have also contributed to the deteriorating security environment.
Advice
Avoid the area due to 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.
