Burkina Faso junta detains NGO workers for 'spying'

Burkina Faso's security minister has accused an unspecified non-governmental organization (NGO) of "collecting and passing on sensitive security information," leading to the detention of several of the NGO's workers. The junta, which seized power in January 2022, claims the NGO's actions amounted to "spying." The NGO has denied the allegations, stating that it was merely carrying out its normal humanitarian activities. The incident has raised concerns about the junta's treatment of civil society organizations in the country, which has been grappling with a severe security crisis due to the presence of Islamic extremist groups. The detentions come amid a wider crackdown on dissent and independent voices in Burkina Faso, as the junta seeks to consolidate its hold on power. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both the government and the people of Burkina Faso in addressing the country's complex security and humanitarian challenges.