Burkina Faso: Police patrol attacked in Oudalan province Feb. 4

Event

On Sunday, February 4, unidentified militants ambushed a police patrol in the Déou district of Oudalan province (Sahel region, north). During the exchange of fire, one assailant was killed. In response, police forces launched a security operation in the area following the incident. Additional militant attacks on Burkinabé security forces are possible in the north of the country in the coming days and weeks.

Context

Terrorism has become an increasingly serious security threat in Burkina Faso, especially in the volatile Sahel region. Attacks are usually attributed to Ansarul Islam and other groups affiliated with Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM). Meanwhile, rates of criminal violence - much of which is interlinked with terrorist activity - have also recently increased.

Advice

Due to the serious threats of terrorism and kidnapping, individuals present in Burkina Faso 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, remain vigilant at all times (especially in local markets, used by terrorists as recruitment grounds), and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the authorities.

Several Western governments advise against all travel to areas of the northern Sahel region, particularly areas within 40 km (25 mi) of the Malian border. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to traveling to such areas.