On November 13, 2026, the Prosecutor General of Burkina Faso, Désiré Sawadogo, announced that a judicial inquiry has been opened against several individuals and entities on charges related to terrorism. The inquiry targets various Burkinabè and foreign nationals, including prominent figures such as Camille Makosso, Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba, François Compaoré, and Henry Sebgo.
According to the Prosecutor General, Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba faces charges of complicity in terrorist association, complicity in illegal possession of firearms and ammunition for terrorist purposes, and complicity in financing terrorism. François Compaoré is charged with financing terrorism and complicity in terrorist association. Meanwhile, Ivoirian activist Camille Makosso is accused of apologizing for terrorism and complicity in terrorist association.
The Prosecutor General expressed hope that the international community would cooperate in apprehending and extraditing the accused individuals, particularly those residing outside Burkina Faso. He emphasized that Burkinabè nationals would be pursued and brought to justice, while also expecting other countries to take action against their own nationals implicated in terrorist activities.
The announcement of the judicial inquiry comes as Burkina Faso continues to grapple with security challenges posed by terrorist groups. The country's authorities have been working to strengthen their response to terrorism, including collaborating with international partners to combat the threat.
The cases against the accused individuals are expected to be complex and potentially lengthy, given the involvement of foreign nationals and the international dimensions of the alleged crimes. The Prosecutor General's office will likely work closely with other countries to gather evidence and build strong cases against those accused.
Public reactions to the announcement have been varied, with some expressing support for the government's efforts to tackle terrorism and others questioning the feasibility of international cooperation. The cases have sparked discussions about the complexities of prosecuting terrorism-related offenses and the importance of international cooperation in addressing the threat.
The judicial inquiry is part of a broader effort by Burkina Faso's authorities to address the country's security challenges and bring those responsible for terrorist activities to justice. The government has been working to strengthen its institutions and response to terrorism, with support from international partners.
Key points
- The judicial inquiry targets several high-profile individuals, including Camille Makosso, Paul Henri Sandaogo Damiba, François Compaoré, and Henry Sebgo, on charges related to terrorism.
