Burkina Faso: Curfew in Est region extended to May 2 /update 6

Event

The governor of the Est region, announced on Tuesday, March 3, that the current curfew will be extended through Saturday, May 2. the extension is due to ongoing security issues in the region and will continue to run from 19:30 to 04:00 (local time), except in Fada N'Gourma, the regional capital, where it will be in effect from 00:00 to 04:00.

A heightened security presence is expected throughout Est region over the coming months, along with continued militant operations. Further extensions to the curfew are also possible.

Context

Burkina Faso declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions, including Est region, on January 1, 2019. 

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, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), as well as the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS).

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments to the security situation in Burkina Faso and applicable regulations (e.g. curfews, 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.