10 Nov 2021 | 06:47 PM UTC
Togo: Unidentified armed men attack security post in Kpendjal Prefecture during the night of Nov. 9-10
Unidentified assailants attack security post in Kpendjal Prefecture, Savanes Region, Togo, Nov. 9-10. Heightened security likely.
Event
A group of unidentified armed assailants reportedly attacked a security post in the village of Sanloaga located along Togo's border with Burkina Faso in the Savanes Region's Kpendjal Prefecture during the night of Nov. 9-10. Authorities believe that the attackers may have been militants from Burkina Faso; no casualties were reported.
Authorities have reinforced the government security posture in the area. Additional clashes between security forces and militants are possible in the coming days.
Context
Togo has largely avoided spillover of militant activity from neighboring Burkina Faso in recent years. However, as groups aligned with Al-Qaeda and Islamic State (IS) continue to make gains in Burkina Faso and elsewhere, further militant encroachment southward into coastal West Africa, including Togo, Cote d'Ivoire, and Ghana, remains possible.
Advice
Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling in northern Togo. Confirm the status of routes before travel. Exercise heightened vigilance in the area. Avoid travel at night and concentrations of security personnel. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.
