Burkina Faso’s government says it has uncovered and dismantled an alleged espionage network operating under the guise of humanitarian work, implicating several foreign nationals affiliated with the International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO).
Authorities confirmed the arrest of seven individuals, including French, Czech, and Malian nationals, accused of gathering sensitive intelligence on the country’s Defense and Security Forces (FDS).
The suspects are to face prosecution for espionage and treason under Article 311-4 of the Penal Code.
According to Security Minister Mahamadou Sana, intelligence services launched an investigation following a public tip-off, revealing that INSO had collected information on military convoys, deployment zones, and explosive incidents.
The network reportedly operated through a three-tier structure comprising former FDS members as advisers, field agents gathering data, and community liaisons spread across several regions. Despite being suspended since July 31, 2025, INSO allegedly continued its activities.
Among those arrested are INSO’s country director, French national Jean-Christophe Emile Pegon, deputy director Aminata Marianne Guissé, and Czech national Thomas Muzik.
