Burkina Faso: Newspaper suspends publication after reported abduction of journalist

An investigative newspaper in Burkina Faso has suspended publication after the abduction of its publishing director, Reuters reports. In June, armed men arrived at the home of Atiana Serge Oulon, the publishing director of “L’Evenement”, and forced him into a minibus, according to report from Reporters without Borders. Two men returned to Oulon’s home, identified themselves as secret service agents and seized his computer and telephone, the report added.

The bi-monthly newspaper said in a statement it was forced to take an indefinite break, citing the “many challenges” it currently faces. It mentioned Oulon’s absence but did not give further explanation. The suspension comes against a backdrop of growing concerns over press freedom and human rights in Burkina Faso. The military government, which seized power in a 2022 coup, has been accused of suppressing dissent. Reuters reports the government has not replied to a request for comment.