Conducted from December 15, 2025 to January 15, 2026, the national security operation WIBGA in Burkina Faso mobilised more than 177,847 personnel and led to the arrest of 1,610 individuals, according to the official report presented by the Ministry of Security.
The crime rate fell from 3.17 per 100,000 inhabitants in November 2025 to 2.73 per 100,000 inhabitants in December 2025—a decline of 0.44 points—following the launch of Operation WIBGA during the end-of-year holiday period.
According to the overall assessment of the nationwide operation, security forces arrested 1,610 people and checked 584,066 individuals across the country.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of eight weapons, including two Kalashnikov rifles, as well as CFA 126,332,950 in fixed fines. Security forces confiscated 96 tonnes of drugs, 839 jerrycans, six cartons, 907 sachets, 385 litres of illicit alcoholic beverages, and 100 litres of smuggled fuel.
In total, 176 suspects were referred to judicial authorities. A further 394,015 vehicles were inspected, and 6,072 two-, three-and four-wheeled vehicles were seized for various offenses.
In terms of road safety, Operation WIBGA delivered encouraging results, with 6,337 people sensitized on helmet use and other risky behaviors. Health services received 2,189 road accident victims who were assisted and evacuated by security forces. The road traffic fatality rate stood at 3.06% during the operation period.
This large-scale operation mobilised more than 177,847 security personnel nationwide, involving the Central Security Forces Group (GFSC), the National Police, the National Gendarmerie, the National Fire Brigade, and the National Road Safety Office.
Security authorities nevertheless noted several challenges, including non-compliance with safety instructions by some road users, incivility marked by speeding and refusal to comply with orders, as well as poor lighting on roads and in high-risk areas.
The operation aimed to ensure the safety of people and property during the peak end-of-year travel period, while combating crime in all its forms and strengthening the deterrent presence of security forces in sensitive areas.
Ho/Sf/lb/as/APA