Ouagadougou: A planned coup against Burkina Faso's presidency, initially set for April 16, 2025, has been successfully thwarted, as revealed by Security Minister Mahamadou Sana during a public television broadcast on Monday evening.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the plot involved a group of soldiers collaborating with terrorist factions, who aimed to unleash chaos and seize power through simultaneous attacks across the country. Vigilant intelligence services intercepted crucial communications between key individuals and terrorist leaders, which led to the uncovering of the conspiracy.
The investigation identified Barry Abdramane, an officer in the Burkinabe Armed Forces, as a central figure in the plot. Abdramane, who was already under desertion proceedings, had been on irregular leave when his communications were monitored, revealing connections with other implicated military personnel. These included Officer Kompaor© Joanny, former non-commissioned officer Zerbo Laoko, Commander Ou©draogo Fr©d©ric, and Officer Kabor© Constantin, the latter of whom is currently a refugee in Abidjan.
The intelligence services' meticulous work unveiled a grand scheme designed to destabilize the country. The plotters intended to create a climate of instability, hoping to place Burkina Faso under international guardianship. Sensitive information had been shared with terrorist groups to incite attacks against both military forces and civilians, aiming to provoke an uprising against the government.
Further strategies included misguiding intelligence efforts, inciting mass arrests within the Internal Defense and Security Forces, and disseminating manipulated messages to spread confusion and fear among officials and military leaders. Religious and traditional leaders were reportedly approached to persuade officers to join the coup, while Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDPs) were offered financial incentives to demoralize their peers.
The plot was set to culminate in an attack on the presidency, synchronized with large-scale terrorist assaults to potentially neutralize air capabilities. However, timely reports from patriotic soldiers and VDPs helped authorities arrest several masterminds in Ouagadougou just before the coup could be executed.
While some suspects were intercepted fleeing to C´te d'Ivoire, where the main instigators are believed to be operating from an operations center in Abidjan, the intelligence services continue to monitor the situation closely. The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, while the nation's forces are encouraged to maintain their courage and vigilance in safeguarding the country.