Togo: Authorities extend state of security emergency in Savanes Region through March 2024 /update 2

Event

On April. 6, the National Assembly extended the state of security emergency in the northern Savanes Region bordering Burkina Faso through at least March 13, 2024. Authorities initially implemented the measure in June 2022, citing the latest attacks targeting security personnel in the region, including in the Kpendjal Prefecture in May 2022 and November 2021. The latest reported attack occurred in the Kpendjal on Feb. 10, where 31 civilians were killed. There have been no claims of responsibility for the attack.

An increased security posture is almost certain in Savanes. Security forces may establish checkpoints and roadblocks, likely prompting associated ground transport disruptions in the region. The implementation of curfews remains possible. Further militant attacks may also occur.

Context

An uptick in attacks, mainly targeting security forces, on the northern borders of Cote d'Ivoire in 2021 and Benin in 2022 highlights the ongoing threat, while Ghana issued a terrorist threat warning in May 2022, citing security conditions in the region and recent attacks against neighboring countries and concluded that there was reason to believe that Ghana was being targeted. 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

Exercise a high level of personal security awareness and caution in the impacted region. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.