25 Feb 2024 | 04:12 PM UTC
Burkina Faso: Unidentified assailants kill 15 people during armed attack in Essakane, Sahel Region, Feb. 25
Unidentified gunmen kill 15 people in Essakane, Sahel Region, Burkina Faso, Feb. 25. Further attacks likely.
Unidentified gunmen killed 15 people in Essakane, Sahel Region, on the morning of Feb. 25. Initial reports indicate the attackers targeted the victims during a worship service. At least two other people suffered injuries in the assault. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack.
Authorities may deploy additional security forces and increase security measures in the region. Enhanced security measures could include movement restrictions, vehicle checks, curfews, and/or bans on public gatherings. Further attacks and armed clashes are likely.
Essakane is located 40 km (25 miles) north of Dori.
Exercise a high degree of caution in the affected location and heed instructions of authorities. 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.
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.
