The military government of Burkina Faso has successfully thwarted a sophisticated assassination plot targeting its leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, and several high-ranking officials.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana announced the development during a national television broadcast, revealing that intelligence services intercepted the operation in its final stages.
According to the minister, the conspirators intended to assassinate Captain Traoré and subsequently launch coordinated strikes against key state institutions and prominent civilian figures.
Authorities allege that the conspiracy was heavily funded by a neighbouring country. Central to the investigation is a leaked video recovered by security forces, which purportedly shows the plotters discussing various methods to eliminate the Head of State.
These plans included a close-range assassination or the use of explosives at Traoré’s residence, with the attack scheduled for shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 3.
Beyond the primary target, the plotters allegedly aimed to destabilise the nation by mobilising specific soldiers and civilian supporters to seize control.
A critical component of the coup attempt involved a plan to disable the country’s drone-launch base, a move intended to prevent any potential foreign intervention during the transition of power.
Minister Sana confirmed that the situation is currently under control and that the integrity of the state remains intact.
He concluded his address by urging the public to remain vigilant and cautioned citizens against being misled into participating in dangerous schemes through political naivety.
