Burkina Faso now has one security officer for every 537 residents, compared with one for every 648 in 2021, the Security Minister Mahamadou Sana said on Friday during a presentation of the government’s achievements in Ouagadougou.
According to the Security Minister, Police Commissioner Mahamadou Sana, between 2022 and June 2026, Burkina Faso strengthened its security personnel and resources,
“The officer-to-population ratio rose from one officer for every 648 residents in 2021 to one for every 537 residents in June 2026,” he said during the Government Exhibition held at the Ouagadougou International Arts and Crafts Fair (SIAO).
The minister also reported the recruitment of 16,000 personnel for the National Police and the Water and Forests Service.
The number of specialised units increased from 16 in 2022 to 58 in 2026. The security forces also received over 10,000 motorcycles and 155 vehicles for security operations.
In terms of territorial control, the rate of territory under control rose from 37.88% to 74.53%, according to Sana.
He attributed the increase to the strengthening of combat units and the adaptation of operational strategies.
The minister also cited several measures to combat crime and road insecurity. These include the Digital Monitoring, Assistance and Alert Brigade, the National Cybercrime Brigade (BCLCC) Alert platform, automated traffic enforcement and electronic fines.
Helmet use rose from 8.7% in 2022 to more than 95% currently, according to the figures presented.
The ministry also said it had strengthened community policing through the Laabal Brigade, Yaka Police, the BRICIR and mobile police stations.
More than 4,400 people have also been supervised as part of community service programmes.
The minister finally reaffirmed the government’s determination to continue efforts to regain control of the national territory, digitally transform security services and promote civic responsibility.
HO/te/lb/gik/APA