Burkina Faso: Security patrol hits landmine in Est region Dec. 22

Event

A police patrol hit an improvised explosive device (IED) near the town of Kompienbiga (Est region), while traveling between the towns of Fada N'Gourma and Pama, on Saturday, December 22. At least three soldiers were killed and four others injured in the attack. Further such attacks are possible in the coming days.

Context

Terrorism has become an increasingly severe security threat in Burkina Faso since 2015. Educational institutions, local government officials, and security forces are specifically targeted. Initially concentrated in the Sahel region, attacks have spread to other regions, including eastern Burkina Faso (Est region) which is also known for high crime rates. Attacks are usually attributed to Ansarul Islam and other groups affiliated with Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM).

On November 22, the French Minister of Foreign Affairs (MAE) updated its Burkina Faso travel advisory. It now advises its citizens to strictly avoid areas in the east of the country along the border with Niger, the provinces of Yagha, Komondjari, Kompienga, and Tapoa (including the W National Park), the eastern part of Gourma province, and the southeast (along the border with Benin, including on the road between Fada Ngourma and Pama), due to the presence of terrorist groups.

Advice

Due to the severe 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, and to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.