Burkina Faso: Unidentified assailants kill at least 21 civilians during two separate attacks in Koulpelogo Province May 15 and 17.

Event

According to reports released May 19, unidentified assailants killed at least 11 civilians during an attack in the village of Kaongo in Koulpelogo Province, Centre-Est Region, on May 15. According to officials, the assailants carried out a subsequent attack on the neighboring village of Bilguimdoure on May 17, killing at least 10 people; cattle theft and arson were reported. Authorities have begun to secure the area. While no group claimed responsibility for the assault, Islamist militants are suspected to be 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.

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.