Burkina Faso Says It Prevented a Coup Plot Linked to Terrorists and Exiled Soldiers

Burkina Faso's military-led government says it successfully thwarted what it calls a “major” coup attempt aimed at removing junta leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré. The plan, according to officials, was orchestrated by both former and serving members of the armed forces in collaboration with terrorist elements — with alleged backing from neighboring Ivory Coast.

Coup Foiled Before It Could Strike

Speaking on national television, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed that the coup plot was uncovered before it could be executed. The conspirators allegedly intended to storm the presidential palace in Ouagadougou on April 16, 2025. Authorities say the aim was not just to overthrow the current leadership but to throw the country into complete chaos, possibly paving the way for foreign intervention under the guise of international oversight.

Ties to Ivory Coast and Terror Groups

Sana said the plan was coordinated with "terrorist leaders," and that its masterminds — including two former Burkinabe army officers — were operating from Ivory Coast. The military claims sensitive information was leaked to extremist groups to trigger more attacks and stir unrest within Burkina Faso.

Ivory Coast has yet to issue a formal response to the allegations. However, tensions have simmered between the two countries before, especially over claims that dissidents in exile receive tacit support across the border.

Recent Arrests and Growing Regional Instability

Authorities have arrested several individuals tied to the alleged coup plot, including two military officers. This isn’t the first such incident — a similar attempt was reported in November 2024. These frequent threats reflect the instability that has plagued the country since Captain Traoré took power in 2022, amid escalating jihadist violence.

Today, nearly 40% of Burkina Faso’s territory is believed to be under the control of militant groups. Despite shifting alliances from France to Russia in search of better security cooperation, the situation remains volatile.

A Pattern Across the Sahel

Burkina Faso is not alone in its struggles. It forms part of a newly emerging alliance with Mali and Niger — all of which are now led by military juntas. These states have cut ties with the West African bloc ECOWAS and distanced themselves from former colonial power France, aligning more closely with Russia instead.