The military government of Burkina Faso has announced the arrest of a senior army commander and several accomplices over what it described as “extremely serious acts” threatening national security and cohesion within the armed forces.

A statement issued by the Presidency of Faso on Monday said Commander Elysé Tassembedo of the 12th Commando Infantry Regiment was taken into custody alongside other officers accused of actions that endanger the stability of the country and unity of the military.

The government said investigations were ongoing to apprehend other suspects linked to the plot.

The development has reportedly triggered unrest in some military barracks across the country, with signs of discontent among a section of soldiers, which authorities described as attempts by “a misguided minority” to destabilise the country.

President Ibrahim Traoré, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, issued a stern warning, declaring that any soldier complicit in acts that undermine the state would be treated as an enemy of the nation and dealt with decisively.

“In consequence, all heads of military units are hereby ordered to immediately report to Ouagadougou for a high-level meeting,” the statement read.

It added that any senior officer or unit commander who fails to comply with the summons will be dismissed from the ranks of the National Armed Forces.

The president urged all soldiers to remain vigilant, disciplined, and loyal to the Burkinabe people, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving national security and order.

The incident marks a fresh wave of tension within Burkina Faso’s military, following recent internal divisions and strained relations among top officers since the 2022 coup that brought Traoré to power. (Zagalo, but headline rejigged)