We just received this email message from the US Embassy. RSP has taken out the internet and communications backbone of the nation in an attempt to thwart the kind of social networking and mobilization that proved so effective during the Arab Spring and the October 30 uprising in Burkina last year. As stated, internet throughiut Fada has been down since hours after the coup. Here’s the message:
U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Emergency Message for U.S. Citizens:
Communications Infrastructure Destroyed
September 21, 2015
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that on September 20 RSP elements have destroyed equipment at Onatel, Ouagadougou’s main internet service provider, slowing internet services and eliminating Telmob’s cell phone signal. Onatel technicians are working on repairs to the network, and we have seen some signs of improved connectivity. The Embassy will communicate any future messages via telephone to the wardens who will be asked to contact the U.S. citizens in their warden zone. In the event that internet and telephone communications become unavailable, the Embassy will seek to have any changes to the Embassy’s security recommendations announced via radio, including RFI and VOA.
Embassy staff continues to shelter in place and essential movements are made in armored vehicles.
The U.S. Embassy in Ouagadougou has not received any threat information pertaining to U.S. citizens, or U.S. interests.
The security environment in Burkina remains very fluid, with continued confirmed reports of confrontations between demonstrators and security forces throughout Ouagadougou and other cities in Burkina Faso. Sporadic gunfire continues to be reported.
Commercial flights have resumed at the Ouagadougou International Airport, and land borders are now open. We recommend that U.S. citizens travel to the airport only if they are confident they can do so safely and have a confirmed reservation. A curfew between 7:00 pm and 6:00 am remains in effect.
We urge U.S. citizens in Ouagadougou to continue to shelter in place and make movements for essential purposes only. Due to reports that roadways between major cities may be impassable, U.S. citizens in other parts of Burkina Faso may also find that the best option is to shelter in place.
U.S. citizens should maintain situational awareness and exercise good judgment. Be alert and remain aware of your surroundings. Stay informed and abreast of local media reports.