Ouagadougou: Lieutenant-Colonel Gyengani Modeste Wend-Bala was installed as the new commander of the First Gendarmerie Legion on Tuesday, emphasizing his mandate on "loyalty and close command" to strengthen security in the area.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the Chief of Staff of the National Gendarmerie, Colonel Issa Yaguibou, officiated the handover ceremony. Lieutenant-Colonel Wend-Bala took over from Colonel Tago KF Thophile, who has been appointed to lead the Third Gendarmerie Legion in Ouagadougou.

Lieutenant-Colonel Wend-Bala committed to adhering to his mission directives by consolidating security in reclaimed areas and continuing operations with the Defense and Security Forces. He declared his determination to focus on loyalty and close command, ensuring his team remains dedicated "until the total reconquest of the national territory."

He urged administrative, customary, and religious leaders, along with the community, to support the First Legion's mission in maintaining peace and security. The First Gendarmerie Legion, headquartered in Kaya, oversees the regions of Kouls and Yaadga.