By Muhammad Mamman
Burkina Faso’s military government has announced that it successfully foiled a sophisticated coup attempt aimed at assassinating the country’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.
In a national television broadcast, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed that intelligence services intercepted the plot in its final stages, preventing a potentially deadly strike.
According to Sana, the conspirators had planned to assassinate Traoré at close range or by planting explosives at his residence shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Saturday, 3 January. The plotters allegedly intended to follow up by targeting other senior military and civilian figures, mobilising supporters, and sabotaging the nation’s drone-launch base to hinder foreign intervention.
The minister also alleged that the conspiracy received funding from a neighbouring country, although he did not provide further details on the source. Authorities reportedly uncovered a leaked video in which the plotters outlined their plans and discussed potential targets.
Sana reassured citizens that the situation was under control and urged the public to remain vigilant. “Do not be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes,” he warned.
The foiled coup comes amid ongoing political tensions in Burkina Faso, where the military junta has maintained power since toppling the previous government in 2022. International observers have called for stability and restraint as authorities investigate the failed operation.
