Burkina Faso: Government extends curfews across the Sahel and Est regions until at least Nov. 22 /update 1

Event

Burkinabe authorities have extended nighttime curfews in the Sahel Region until at least Oct. 6 and the Est Region until at least Nov. 22 in response to the ongoing threat posed by militant groups. Curfew hours in the Sahel region generally run 19:00-05:00 with certain exceptions. The curfew runs between the hours of 00:01-04:00 in the town of Djibo, while the measure is in force 22:00-04:00 in Bani, Falagountou, Sampelga, Seytenga, Gorom-Gorom, Markoye, and Sebba townships. There is no curfew in effect in the town of Dori. The Est Region will observe a regional-wide 00:01-04:00 curfew until at least Nov. 22. The measure will be strictly enforced.

Authorities may extend the curfews beyond their currently slated expiration dates. Officials may enact other restrictions on movement or public assembly. Curfews will affect all commercial transportation and passenger vehicles. Parked commercial vehicles may cause morning traffic congestion and hazards near populated areas limiting the flow of traffic. Military and police forces will almost certainly maintain a counterterrorism presence in the affected region; clashes between militants and government forces are likely.

Context

In recent years, the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM) and Ansar-ul Islam have emerged as the main non-state armed groups in Burkina Faso. Both groups have claimed responsibility for attacks in the country's north and east, as well as attacks in Ouagadougou. Burkina Faso's porous borders with Mali and Niger and the limited capabilities of its security forces suggest that further attacks are likely.

Militants typically attack security facilities and patrols in remote locations near the borders, though attacks on civilians have increased. Attacks have also spread to previously unaffected areas despite increased security operations by government forces. Militant groups have repeatedly targeted vital infrastructure, schools, religious sites, government offices, and security checkpoints.

Advice

Consider deferring nonessential travel to the Sahel and Est Regions until the situation stabilizes. If travel is unavoidable, exercise a high degree of caution in affected areas and heed the instructions of authorities. Maintain a low profile, avoid nighttime movement, vary routines, and move in guarded convoys if operating in the affected region. Minimize exposure to potential targets, including places of worship, security installations, markets, and other crowded locations. Carry proper identification and travel documents at all times. Remain polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.