Burkina Faso: Widespread Insecurity Amid Rising Terrorist Activities
Burkina Faso continues to grapple with a worsening security crisis as terrorist groups launch relentless attacks across the country, leaving citizens in fear and despair. The Sahel region, which has become a sanctuary for terrorist armed groups, now faces an alarming surge in violence as militant factions exploit the weakened state security apparatus.
On November 24, 2024, heavily armed terrorist groups were spotted near Noaho and Sawenga in Koulelogo Province, triggering panic among local residents. Authorities have urged the public and defense forces in the area to remain on high alert.
The situation is no less dire in Banwa Province, where an attack on November 22 resulted in significant loss of life and property. Eyewitnesses report that despite the presence of the Rapid Intervention Brigade (BIR), no preventive action was taken, leaving the community vulnerable and fostering a growing sense of abandonment among citizens.
Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), a terrorist organization affiliated with Al-Qaida, has claimed responsibility for several attacks over the weekend. On November 24, JNIM reportedly seized a Burkinabe army camp in Bissila, Kaya Province, and issued a statement celebrating their success.
In another assault, JNIM targeted the village of Bani in Seno Province, resulting in casualties, injuries, and severe property damage. Meanwhile, in the eastern region near Fada N’Gourma, JNIM claimed the capture of another military base on November 23, although official confirmation and details remain unavailable.
Several communities are bearing the brunt of these terrorist operations. The municipality of Madouba has been under siege for months, facing an escalating humanitarian crisis as residents cry out for aid. In nearby Kolonkan and Poro, an improvised explosive device (IED) killed an ox on November 24, while armed individuals attacked a toll post in Bouakuy later the same day.
The village of Dina, located near the targeted toll post, has been abandoned by its residents due to ongoing terrorist harassment. Local leaders have raised urgent alarms for intervention as the crisis worsens.
Sanmatenga Province in the north-central region witnessed attacks in the towns of Fouroundji and Pibaore on November 23. While the extent of casualties and damage is unknown, the recurrence of such attacks underscores the fragility of security in these regions.
