Burkina Faso Junta Accuses NGO Workers of Espionage and Treason

Military government accuses Dutch based humanitarian organisation of espionage and treason

Burkina Faso’s military government has detained eight members of a Dutch-based humanitarian organisation, accusing them of “spying and treason.” The group includes three Europeans, a Malian, and four Burkinabé nationals among them the NGO’s country director and deputy.
According to the authorities, the organisation allegedly gathered and transmitted sensitive security data to foreign powers, endangering national security.

Detentions and Suspension of Operations

Anthony Neal, a representative of the NGO, confirmed that the country director had been held since July when the organisation was first suspended. The other seven staff members were detained later.
Burkina Faso’s government initially suspended the NGO on 31 July for three months, citing unauthorised collection of sensitive information. Despite the ban, the authorities claim the group continued to gather intelligence secretly.

NGO Denies Espionage Allegations

The International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO) has “categorically” denied the accusations, stating that its data collection activities were entirely transparent and focused on humanitarian safety. Neal emphasised that the organisation’s work involves sharing non-confidential safety information for aid workers operating in high-risk zones.
He added that INSO had been in full cooperation with Burkinabé authorities before the detentions and that all information collection stopped after the suspension took effect.

Government’s Position and Context

Security Minister Mahamadou Sana claimed that the NGO’s activities could harm national interests and strengthen foreign influence in Burkina Faso. The junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has had increasingly strained relations with Western nations since coming to power three years ago.
Amid the ongoing Islamist insurgency, the military government severed ties with France and forged closer relations with Russia. Human rights organisations have accused the army of civilian abuses and suppressing dissent.

Humanitarian Concerns

Mr Neal warned that this crackdown could endanger humanitarian workers in one of West Africa’s most volatile regions. “Safety information is critical,” he said, noting that 2025 has seen a record number of aid worker deaths worldwide.
INSO continues to push for the immediate release of its detained staff and has urged international partners to support diplomatic engagement.

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