Burkina Faso Columnist Alain Traoré Taken by Armed Men in Masks

On July 13, 2024, at around 5 a.m., Alain Traoré, also known as Alain Alain, a journalist and head of Desk Langues Nationales at Omega Media, was kidnapped from his home by armed, hooded individuals. According to his relatives, the abductors identified themselves as agents of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR) and assured his family that he would be returned home before 8 a.m. in time for his 10 a.m. show.

However, as of the publication of this press release, Omega Media has received no updates regarding his whereabouts. His forced disappearance has raised serious concerns about the safety of journalists in Burkina Faso, particularly in the current climate of escalating threats to press freedom.

Media and human rights organizations are calling for urgent action to locate Alain Traoré and ensure his safe return, urging authorities to investigate the circumstances of his abduction and hold those responsible accountable.