There's a high risk of terrorist attacks and kidnapping.
Local extremist militant groups have attacked targets in Burkina Faso. The threat of kidnapping is highest in the north and east of the country.
Terrorists could launch an attack any time. Targets could include places with foreign interests or popular with foreigners, such as:
- embassies
- cafes and restaurants
- shopping centres
- schools
- hotels
On 31 December 2018, the Burkina Faso Government declared a state of emergency. This applies to several provinces including northern and eastern Burkina Faso along the Mali, Niger, Togo and Benin borders. The emergency measure gives security forces powers to search homes and restrict movement.
Follow directions from local authorities and obey curfews.
In May 2018, terrorist organisations warned attacks would target Westerners and Western companies in the Sahel. Mining companies in Burkina Faso have been reviewing their security practices and procedures for possible terrorist incidents.
Militant local groups pose a serious kidnapping threat in the north, particularly extremists from Mali. AQIM has stated it aims to target foreigners for terrorist attacks and kidnapping. This group has claimed responsibility for several local attacks since 2006, and taken hostages from remote areas.
Other recent major terror attacks include:
- On 6 November 2019, at least 39 people were killed in an attack on a mining convoy near Boungou in eastern Burkina Faso.
- On 3 November 2019, the Deputy Mayor of Djibo in northern Burkina Faso was killed in a roadside ambush.
- On 16 January 2019, a Canadian citizen was kidnapped from a mine site in Yagha Province, Sahel region and killed.
- On 27 December 2018, terrorists killed 10 police officers in an attack in north-west Burkina Faso.
- On 23 September 2018, terrorists kidnapped three Inata gold mine staff travelling between Inata and Tongomayel, near Djibo.
- On 17 September 2018, terrorists kidnapped an Italian priest in Bomanga, Niger, around 15km from the Burkina Faso/Niger border.
- In August 2018, there were 2 attacks on a Canadian-owned mining company's sites in eastern Burkina Faso.
- In March 2018 and August 2017, attacks occurred in central Ouagadougou, killing and injuring several people.
- In January 2016, an attack at the Splendid Hotel in central Ouagadougou killed at least 30 people, including several foreigners. Al-Qa'ida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) claimed responsibility.
- In January 2016, terrorists kidnapped two Australians near Djibo in northern Burkina Faso.
The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.
Australian officials visiting Burkina Faso adopt extra security measures in response to the changing security environment.
If you travel to Burkina Faso despite the risks:
- get professional security advice
- use effective personal security measures
- report suspicious activity to the police
- watch the media for threats
- take official warnings seriously
- follow instructions from local authorities
Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.
Avoid possible targets for terror attacks, or have an exit plan if you must go.
If there is an attack near you, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
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