Togo: Suspected militants kill at least 12 people in Kpendjal Prefecture July 14-15

Event

Unidentified militants attacked at least two villages in Kpendjal Prefecture, Savanes Region, overnight July 14-15. According to local activists, at least 12 people died in the raids targeting Blamonga and Sougtangou. There are conflicting reports on the number of casualties from the attacks.

Authorities will likely maintain an elevated security posture in the area over the coming days and weeks. Officials could implement restrictive movement measures. Further similar attacks remain possible in the near term.

Context

Togo has largely avoided spillover of militant activity from neighboring Burkina Faso in recent years. However, as groups aligned with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State continue to make gains in Burkina Faso and elsewhere, further militant encroachment southward into coastal West Africa, including Togo, Benin, Cote d'Ivoire, and Ghana, is possible.

Advice

Liaise with trusted contacts before traveling in northern Togo. Confirm the status of routes before travel and avoid travel at night. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.