There have been claims circulating, particularly on social media platforms like X, suggesting that guards of Burkina Faso’s military head of state, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, were offered $5 million to assassinate him.
These posts, dated around April 5-7, 2025, imply a dramatic event where the guards allegedly refused the bribe, leading to an unexpected outcome that thwarted the plot. However, as of the current date, April 8, 2025, no credible, verified news sources—such as international media outlets or official Burkina Faso government statements—have confirmed this specific incident involving a $5 million offer to Traoré’s guards.
Ibrahim Traoré, who seized power in a coup in September 2022, has faced multiple reported coup attempts and assassination threats during his tenure, reflecting the volatile political and security situation in Burkina Faso.
The country has been grappling with a jihadist insurgency since 2015, displacing over two million people and contributing to political instability that has led to successive military takeovers.
Traoré’s regime has also shifted foreign alliances, moving away from France and toward Russia, which has heightened tensions with Western powers and regional neighbors. This context makes assassination plots plausible, and Traoré himself has acknowledged facing such threats, though specifics like the $5 million bribe remain unverified.
For instance, in June 2024, Traoré appeared on national television to deny rumors of a mutiny following a deadly jihadist attack, showing his awareness of internal and external challenges to his rule.
Analysts have noted his increasing authoritarian measures, such as conscripting critics and extending military rule by five years in May 2024, suggesting a leader under pressure. Reports also indicate Russian mercenaries, like the Bear Brigade, have been involved in guarding Traoré, highlighting the high stakes around his security. Yet, the $5 million claim lacks concrete evidence beyond social media speculation as of now.
Without official confirmation or detailed reporting from reputable sources, this specific story should be treated as unconfirmed. It aligns with the broader narrative of Traoré’s precarious position but cannot be substantiated with the available information.
If this is a recent event from early April 2025, further developments might emerge in the coming days or weeks, so the situation bears watching. For now, the claim reflects current sentiment on platforms like X but remains anecdotal rather than factual.
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