Burkina Faso Authorities Foil Another Assass!nation Plot Targeting Military Leader Traoré

Burkina Faso Authorities Foil Another Assassination Plot Targeting Military Leader Traoré

The West African nation’s Security Minister, Mahamadou Sana, said on Tuesday that the alleged operation was orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, the former leader ousted by Traoré in September 2022.

Burkina Faso’s security services have intercepted a fresh plot to assassinate Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader.

The West African nation’s Security Minister, Mahamadou Sana, said on Tuesday that the alleged operation was orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, the former leader ousted by Traoré in September 2022.

“Our intelligence services intercepted this operation in its final stages. The plan was to assassinate the head of state and then carry out attacks on other strategic targets, including key institutions and civilian figures,” said Minister Sana.

He added that the operation was financed from neighbouring Ivory Coast.

Neither Lt Col Damiba nor authorities in Ivory Coast have commented on the accusations.

Since taking power, Capt Traoré has survived at least two coup attempts and continues to face jihadist violence, which has displaced millions of people.

The 37-year-old leader maintains support among sections of the population and has gained recognition across Africa.

Traoré has publicly criticised Western influence and promoted pan-Africanist ideas.

Authorities have increased security around government installations and are monitoring borders, particularly with Ivory Coast, as part of the investigation.

The foiled plot is the latest in a series of security incidents since Traoré assumed power in 2022.

Since September 2022, Capt Traoré has faced multiple alleged coup attempts. He took power after overthrowing Lt Col Damiba, who had led the country for a few months.

In April 2025, authorities said they had prevented a coup involving current and former soldiers planning attacks on the presidential palace and other strategic locations.

These incidents have taken place amid ongoing jihadist violence and a humanitarian crisis, affecting security and stability in the country.