Burkina Faso’s military government has foiled a “major plot” to overthrow junta leader Capt Ibrahim Traoré, with the army alleging the plotters were based in neighboring Ivory Coast.
Security Minister Mahamadou Sana announced the foiled coup attempt on television, stating that current and former soldiers working with “terrorist leaders” planned to attack the presidential palace.
The plot aimed to “sow total chaos” and place the country under international supervision.
The army claimed the plotters attempted to use Burkinabe religious and traditional leaders to sway army officers into backing the plan.
Two former army officers, believed to be behind the plot, are reportedly based in Ivory Coast.
This is the latest in a series of claims of attempts to remove Capt Traoré, who seized power in 2022 amid increasing militant attacks.
Burkina Faso has been battling armed jihadist groups, with an estimated 40% of the country under their control.
The region has seen frequent attacks despite promises by the military government to improve security.
