We stopped assassination attempt against Captain Traore, Burkina Faso’s authorities says

Burkina Faso’s authorities have reported that they have thwarted an assassination attempt against the military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, just hours before it was reportedly set to take place.

In a televised address, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana disclosed that intelligence services uncovered this elaborate plot, which he attributes to Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, the military officer Traoré deposed in September 2022. Sana also claimed that the plan was financially backed by neighboring Ivory Coast, although neither Damiba nor Ivorian officials have responded to these allegations.

Sana mentioned that investigators recovered a leaked video in which the conspirators were seen discussing their intentions. The video purportedly elaborated on two methods for assassinating Traoré: a close-range attack or by using explosives at his residence, timed for shortly after 11 p.m. on January 3rd. The conspirators also reportedly aimed to target other military and civilian leaders.

The minister asserted that Damiba had mobilized military personnel and civilian supporters, secured external funding—around $125,000 from Ivory Coast—and sought to disable the country’s drone operations to avoid outside intervention.

“We are continuing our investigation and have made several arrests. Those involved will soon face justice,” Sana stated, although he did not disclose the number of individuals detained. He reassured the public that the situation is under control and warned against getting involved in “dangerous schemes.”

Since taking charge, the 37-year-old Traoré has survived at least two previous coup attempts while dealing with rising jihadist violence that has displaced millions. Even amid his authoritarian governing approach and the security issues facing the nation, he maintains substantial domestic support and has earned respect across Africa for his pan-African views and criticism of Western actions in the region.