Burkina Faso – IED Targeting an Armed Forces Convoy

On 2 August 2025, an IED targeted a convoy near Pama, Burkina Faso. Two patches were recovered from the scene, including one belonging to the 11th Rapid Intervention Battalion (11ème BIR – Bataillon d’Intervention Rapide) and AES Alliance of Sahel States (Alliance des États du Sahel). At least two vehicles were damaged, including a Norinco CS/VP14 MRAP which is reported to be among one of the most advanced vehicles in the Armed Forces’ inventory.

Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) are speculated to be responsible for the attack. JNIM are particularly prevalent in Burkina Faso and its neighbouring countries, with attacks previously recorded in Mali, Niger and across West Africa.

Prior reports from 31 July 2025 indicated that insurgent groups in Burkina Faso have concealed IEDs within potholes, which they subsequently covered with cement. This tactic significantly complicates efforts by military forces to detect and neutralise IEDs buried in the road.

For more information on this event, please contact EWS.

#BurkinaFaso #Pama #WestAfrica #JNIM #IED #OSINT