Burkina Faso: Militants kill gendarme in ambush in Soum province May 2

Event

One gendarme was killed and another is missing after militants launched an ambush in Pobé-Menago department (Soum province) on Saturday, May 2. The incident occurred on the Djibo-Bourzanga axis at around 06:30 (local time) when four gendarmes on leave were traveling on motorcycles. Armed militants emerged onto the road and attacked the gendarmes. Two of the gendarmes were able to escape and return to their base in Djibo, but one was killed and the fourth is still missing. Additional security personnel were deployed to the site of the ambush to track down those responsible, but the perpetrators had already fled the area.

Further militant attacks targeting security forces are possible in the region in the near term.

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).

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments relating to the security situation, obey local regulations (e.g. state-of-emergency orders), and remain vigilant for criminal and militant activity. Due to 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.