Burkina Faso: Security forces kill six militants in Ouagadougou suburb May 22

Event

Security forces killed six suspected militants on Tuesday, May 22, amid a heavy exchange of gunfire in the capital Ouagadougou. The six had entrenched themselves in a building in the Rayongo district, located on the outskirts of the city. The incident reportedly began at 03:00 (local time) and lasted for some hours. No details regarding the identity of the militants have been released.

Advice

Individuals in Ouagadougou are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the above area, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.

Due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to be discreet regarding personal details, particularly information concerning nationality, employment, family, etc. Individuals are also advised to avoid public events and places frequented by Westerners, to remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, now used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities. A number of Western governments advise against all travel to areas within 50 km (30 mi) of the Malian border above the Dori-Niangoloko line. Nonessential travel to the western city of Bobo-Dioulasso and border regions of Tapoa province is also advised against due to unstable security conditions along the borders.