Burkina Faso: Reports of gunfire at United Nations roundabout in Ouagadougou Oct. 1 /update 1

Event

Reports suggest gunfire has occurred at United Nations roundabout in Ouagadougou, Oct. 1, while military personnel have cordoned off the Ouaga 2000 area. The cause of the gunfire is unconfirmed. It is possible the gunfire is between soldiers supporting the previous junta and those supporting the new junta; however, this cannot be confirmed at present.

This development comes after Burkina Faso's military confirmed the dissolution of the Burkinabe government and the removal of President Paul-Henri Damiba in Ouagadougou Sept 30. The military has announced that Captain Ibrahim Traore will take the lead of the Patriotic Movement for Safeguarding and Restoration (MPSR), a military junta established after the Jan 22 coup. Authorities have declared the indefinite closure of the country's land and air borders and a 21:00-05:00 until further notice.

Military authorities will almost certianly maintain heightened security across Burkina Faso, especially in Ouagadougou, in the coming days. Transport and business disruptions are likely. the MPSR's suspension of political and civil activities may prompt further unrest and protests. Additionally, protests and demonstrations against and in favor of the new junta are possible in the coming days, despite the ban on political activities. Air and land travel disruptions are likely over the coming days due to the border closures. Clashes between rival military units cannot be ruled out.

Context

Several early reports indicated that Burkinabe soldiers were staging a potential mutiny over pay grievances, which caused unrest within the ranks of the Burkinabe military during the early stages of the conflict. Gunshots and explosions occurred in several areas of Ouagadougou Sept. 30. It was announced shortly thereafter that soldiers led by Captain Ibrahim Traore of the MPSR had dissolved the government despite the mediation efforts made by President Damiba to resolve the situation. A statement by the military leadership stated that Paul-Henri Damiba's handling of the country's security situation prompted the military leaders to conduct the second coup since January.

Advice

Persons in Burkina Faso should shelter in place, maintain close contact with their diplomatic representations, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities, including curfew-related restrictions. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of police and soldiers, and any demonstrations that may materialize. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Reconfirm transport services, including flight reservations, before leaving accommodations. Plan for possible disruptions to telecommunication networks. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Update and review contingency plans. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Burkina Faso.