Death toll rises to eight in Burkina Faso terror attack as Ghana orders air evacuation
The number of Ghanaian traders killed in the jihadist attack in Titao, northern Burkina Faso, has risen to eight after another victim succumbed to injuries.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, February 17, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that seven members of the Ghana National Tomatoes Traders and Transporters Association were initially killed while carrying out lawful trading activities in the area on February 14, 2026.
A fourth injured victim, who had been receiving treatment for severe wounds sustained during the assault, has now died, pushing the death toll to eight.
President John Dramani Mahama and the Government of Ghana have conveyed deep condolences to the bereaved families and loved ones. The government condemned the attack as a senseless act of terror and expressed solidarity with the Government and people of Burkina Faso during what it described as a painful period.
According to the statement, the tragedy highlights the urgent need for strengthened regional security cooperation, a position Ghana reiterated at last month’s High Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security hosted by President Mahama.
On the instructions of the President and following medical advice, arrangements have been made for the immediate air evacuation of all affected Ghanaians from Burkina Faso. The Ghana Air Force is undertaking the evacuation, with the injured expected to arrive in Ghana later today.
Ghana’s Ambassador to Burkina Faso and embassy officials are actively managing the situation and maintaining direct contact with the affected nationals. The government also acknowledged the cooperation of the Burkinabe authorities in facilitating approvals for the evacuation and related interventions.
In the wake of the attack, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued fresh travel guidance for Ghanaians within the sub region, particularly those heading to high risk areas. Citizens planning essential travel to such locations have been advised to consult the Ministry or Ghana’s accredited embassies before departure.
Ghanaians already residing in areas where extremist violence has been recorded have been urged to limit movement, remain in regular contact with Ghanaian missions, share emergency contact details, and keep identification documents readily available to ease consular support if required.
The government assured the public that it is closely monitoring developments and remains engaged with relevant authorities to protect Ghanaian nationals. It reaffirmed that the safety, security and well being of citizens remain paramount and promised to provide further updates when necessary.
Ghanaians in distress or requiring urgent consular assistance have been advised to contact the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through its designated emergency telephone numbers and official email addresses.