BREAKING: Burkina Faso’s Captain Traoré Thwarts Coup Plot, Survives Alleged Assassination Attempt

Burkina Faso’s military authorities say they have foiled an alleged plot to assassinate the country’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, averting what officials described as a coordinated attempt to destabilise the government.
According to a late-night national broadcast, the country’s security services uncovered a carefully planned operation allegedly masterminded by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, the former military ruler who was overthrown by Traoré in September 2022.
The Minister of Security, Mahamadou Sana, disclosed that intelligence operatives intercepted the plot at a critical stage. He said the conspirators intended to kill the head of state before launching attacks on key state institutions and prominent civilian figures.
“Our intelligence services uncovered this operation in its final phase. The plan was to assassinate the president and then strike other strategic targets, including civilian personalities,” Sana said. He further alleged that the operation received financial backing from neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire.
There has been no official response from either Lt Col Damiba or the Ivorian authorities regarding the accusations.
Captain Traoré, who came to power following a military takeover, has reportedly faced at least two coup attempts since assuming leadership. His administration is also contending with escalating jihadist violence that has displaced millions across the country.
Despite these challenges and criticism over his governing style, the 37-year-old leader continues to enjoy strong domestic support and has gained attention across Africa for his pan-Africanist stance and outspoken criticism of Western influence.
Sana revealed that investigators recovered a leaked video in which the alleged plotters were seen discussing plans to assassinate the president, either through a close-range attack or by planting explosives at his residence. The attack was reportedly scheduled for shortly after 11:00 pm local time on Saturday, January 3.
The suspects allegedly planned further assaults on senior military officers and civilian leaders. Authorities also claim Damiba mobilised both soldiers and civilian collaborators, secured foreign funding—reportedly including 70 million CFA francs (about $125,000)—and intended to disable the country’s drone-launch facility to prevent external intervention.
“We have launched comprehensive investigations and made several arrests. Those involved will be brought to justice,” the security minister said, assuring citizens that the situation remained under control. He urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid being drawn into “dangerous schemes.”
The exact number of arrests has not been disclosed.
Critics at home and abroad have accused Traoré’s government of authoritarian practices, including suppressing dissent, arresting military officers arbitrarily, and restricting media freedoms. This is also not the first time Burkina Faso’s junta has alleged foreign interference, particularly involving Côte d’Ivoire.
Analysts warn that the ongoing internal power struggles could further inflame tensions within the region.
Lt Col Damiba ruled Burkina Faso from January to September 2022 after seizing power from an elected government. Following his removal, he went into exile in neighbouring Togo and later stated on social media that he wished his successor success.