Burkina Faso: Five gendarmes killed in attack in Oursi February 5

Event

Unidentified militants attacked a gendarmerie post in Oursi located in the Oudalan province (Sahel region; north) on Tuesday, February 5. At least five gendarmes were killed and three others wounded in the assault. According to military officials, at least 21 jihadist militants were killed following the attack. Further attacks are possible in the Soum province 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 January 1, 2019, the government declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions, to be in effect for six months.

On February 4, Burkinabe military forces launched simultaneous operations in Yatenga and Loroum (Nord region) and Kossi (Boucle du Mouhon region), reportedly killing 146 jihadist militants.

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments to the security situation in northern Burkina Faso and applicable regulations (e.g. state of emergency orders) and remain vigilant for criminal and militant activity.

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.