Burkina Faso: Curfew in Est region extended to March 3 /update 5

Event

The governor of Est region, Saïdou T.P. Sanou, announced on January 3 that the current curfew in the region will be extended to March 3. According to Sanou, the order was extended due to ongoing security issued in the region. The curfew 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

The night-time curfew was originally implemented in March 2019. Burkina Faso declared a state of emergency for the country's border regions, including Est region, on January 1.

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. On November 6, unidentified gunmen attacked a mining convoy in Est Region, killing at least 38 people and leaving more than 60 others wounded. The convoy was reportedly attacked some 40 km (25 mi) from Boungou.

Advice

Individuals in Burkina Faso are advised to monitor developments to the security situation in 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.