Burkina Faso: Authorities expand existing nighttime curfew through at least May 19 /update 2

Event

Authorities have expanded the existing nightly curfew in multiple locations in Burkina Faso as of April 5. The measure will apply to the Sahel Region from 19:00-05:00 with the exception of various localities through at least May 19. The curfew is in response to the ongoing threat of militancy in the country. While the town of Dori is exempt from a nightly curfew, the following times and locations differ from the Sahel's regional curfew:

• 00:01-04:00: Djibo

• 22:00-04:00: Bani, Falagountou, Sampelga, Seytenga, Gorom-Gorom, Markoye, and Sebba

In Bam Province, Center-North Region, the curfew will be enforced between 22:00-05:00 through at least May 4. Officials have stated that the measure would facilitate security operations in the region by the Security and Defense Forces (SDF). The curfew restricts the movement of people, passenger vehicles, two-wheel motorcycles, and bicycles.

Authorities may extend the curfew beyond its current expiration date and/or impose other restrictions on movement or public assembly. Military and police forces will almost certainly maintain a counterterrorism presence in the region; clashes between militants and government forces are likely.

Context

Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and Ansaroul Islam have emerged as the main non-state armed groups in Burkina Faso in recent years. Both groups have claimed responsibility for attacks in the country's north and east. Burkina Faso's porous borders with Mali and Niger and the limited capabilities of its security forces indicate that further attacks are likely.

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

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to the impacted regions until the situation stabilizes. If travel is unavoidable, exercise a high degree of caution and comply with authorities' orders. Maintain a low profile, avoid nighttime movement, vary routines, and move in guarded convoys if operating in the affected areas. 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.