Burkina Faso Locks Down Military Barracks After Failed Coup: Junta on High Alert

Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – A week after authorities announced the disruption of a major coup attempt, tensions continue to grip Burkina Faso. The military government, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, claims to have uncovered a conspiracy involving senior military officials and terrorist groups plotting to overthrow the regime.

According to Security Minister Mahamadou Sana, security forces intercepted communications revealing plans for an attack on the presidential palace scheduled for April 16, 2025.

Among the alleged masterminds is Captain René David Ouédraogo, who remains at large. The plot reportedly involved both active and retired soldiers collaborating with insurgents.

In response, security has been significantly tightened in the capital, Ouagadougou. Military checkpoints and surveillance drones now monitor key locations, including the General Baba Sy military camp.

Meanwhile, a planned meeting of army officers on April 22 was abruptly canceled after several invitees failed to attend, deepening mistrust within the armed forces.

Amid the unrest, crowds—including military personnel and families of missing civilians—have gathered at the Mogho Naaba palace, a traditional symbol of authority.

Seeking to consolidate public backing, the junta has called for nationwide demonstrations on April 30 to protest alleged “Western interference.” This follows accusations by U.S. General Michael Langley that Burkina Faso is diverting gold reserves to fund security operations.

Since seizing power in a 2022 coup, Traoré’s government has distanced itself from former colonial power France, instead strengthening ties with Russia. Alongside neighboring Mali and Niger—also under military rule—Burkina Faso has formed the Alliance of Sahel States to combat jihadist insurgencies.

However, violence persists, with rising civilian casualties from both militant attacks and state counter-terror operations.

In a related move, the junta granted amnesty to 21 soldiers convicted in a 2015 coup attempt, signaling reconciliation efforts under Traoré’s leadership.

Yet, as internal dissent and security threats grow, the regime’s stability remains in question, drawing scrutiny from both local and international observers.