Burkina Faso: Armed attack leaves at least 10 dead and 50 others injured in Djibo, Sahel Region, Oct. 24

Event

Unidentified assailants attacked the 14th Combined Arms Regiment barracks in Djibo Oct. 24, killing at least 10 and leaving 50 others injured. No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the attack; however, given the location, Islamist militants are suspected. Security forces reportedly killed 18 of the attackers.

The Burkinabe military is monitoring the situation, and further government action in the form of air strikes or ground operations cannot be ruled out. A heightened security posture is likely in Djibo and the Soum Province in the coming days. Additional clashes between security forces and armed groups are also likely.

Context

In recent years, the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and Ansar-ul Islam have emerged as the main non-state armed groups in Burkina Faso. Both groups have claimed responsibility for attacks in the country's north and east and in Ouagadougou. Further attacks are likely, given the nation's porous borders with Mali and Niger, the limited capabilities of its security forces, and persistent political instability.

Militants typically target security facilities and patrols in remote locations near the borders, though assaults on civilians have increased. Attacks have also spread to previously unaffected areas despite increased security operations by government forces. Militant groups have repeatedly targeted vital infrastructure, schools, religious sites, government offices, and security checkpoints.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution in the impacted location and heed authorities' instructions. Maintain a very low profile, restrict nighttime movements, vary routines, and move in guarded convoys. Minimize exposure to potential targets, including places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Carry proper identification and travel documents at all times. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.