Burkina Faso: At least eight soldiers killed in Kompienga August 28

Event

In the early morning hours (local time) of Tuesday, August 28, a Burkinabe gendarmerie vehicle hit a mine or improvised explosive device (IED) in Kompienga province. The vehicle was reportedly on the road between Fada N'Gourma and Pama. According to local sources, at least eight gendarmes and soldiers were killed in the blast, with several more suffering injuries. It is unclear who is responsible for the attack. A heightened security presence in anticipated in the area in the coming days. 

Advice

Due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso - including the capital Ouagadougou - 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.