Burkina Faso: Suspected militants kill at least 28 people in Nong Faire, Yatenga Province, May 18

Event

Suspected militant jihadists killed at least 28 civilians and injured an unspecified amount of others in the village of Nong Faire, Yatenga Province, around 05:00 May 18. Several members of the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (Volontaires pour la défense de la patrie, VDP) were reported among the fatalities. Following the attack, Burkinabe security personnel deployed to the area in pursuit of the suspected militants and reportedly neutralized them in the village of Barga. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the assault.

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.

Nong Faire is located approximately 29 km (18 mi) southeast of Ouahigouya.

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 various attacks in the country. Burkina Faso's porous borders with Togo and Ghana 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.