Burkina Faso: Militants kill 33 soldiers during attack in Est Region April 27

Event

Unidentified assailants killed at least 33 soldiers and injured 12 others during a complex attack on a military position in Ougarou, Est Region, April 27. According to officials, the soldiers repelled the assault until reinforcements arrived. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the assault, Islamist militants are likely behind the attack.

A heightened security presence will likely remain in the area over the coming days. Local security measures could include movement restrictions, vehicle checks, bans on public gatherings, or curfews. Further attacks and armed clashes are likely.

Ougarou is 270 km (168 miles) east of Ouagadougou.

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.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of caution in the affected 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 diplomatic missions.