MANSILA, Burkina – The Burkinabè Armed Forces launched a comprehensive counter-terrorism operation in Mansila after terrorists assaulted one of their positions on June 11, 2024. Utilizing both aerial and ground operations, the military successfully thwarted a significant terrorist attack, engaging multiple enemy groups across the region, from Sirba River to Boh and Boliel.

According to Burkina Information Agency, on June 11, terrorists attacked a military outpost in Mansila, leading to an immediate and robust response from the Armed Forces. Specialized air vectors, including helicopters, were deployed promptly, delivering precise strikes to prevent the terrorists from regrouping or escaping. The operations were intense and continued over several days, targeting terrorists as they attempted to flee or hide, with many being intercepted and neutralized in the process.

Reinforcements arrived swiftly at the initial site of the attack, with a first specialized vector executing several successful strikes. Additional air support monitored the area throughout the night, and by morning, commandos were deployed via helicopters to further engage the assailants. Ground troops also took part, launching attacks on terrorists who believed they had found refuge. These efforts resulted in numerous terrorists being killed or captured, and their equipment seized or destroyed.

Concurrently, other groups of terrorists were targeted in nearby locations. In Kourpele and Boliel, fleeing terrorists were effectively hit by air vectors. On June 13, another position in Boh faced an attack, to which air support responded by tracking down and striking the attackers at their hideout. Similar patterns of pursuit and engagement followed in subsequent days, including in the Ouahigouya area on June 15.

As of June 17, operations continued as the Armed Forces reported engagement with terrorists attempting to regroup in camouflaged hangars and under large trees. These attempts were thwarted by further airstrikes, demonstrating the military’s ongoing commitment to suppressing terrorist activities within the region.

AIB sources indicate that the Armed Forces are conducting additional territorial reconquest operations, signifying a continued effort to ensure regional security and deter future attacks.