Ouagadougou: The gendarmerie in Burkina Faso has announced that it will impose "systematic sanctions" against its agents found guilty of extortion, following a pledge made by the Chief of Staff of the National Gendarmerie, Colonel Issa Yaguibou. He emphasized the need for personnel to earn public trust and live within their means.

According to Burkina Information Agency, Colonel Issa Yaguibou made these remarks on Wednesday during a visit to the Mogtdo brigade, located 85 kilometers east. He highlighted that agents involved in inappropriate conduct would face disciplinary actions and criminal prosecution, aligning with directives from the country's highest authorities.

During his visit, Colonel Yaguibou called for an end to extortion, harassment, and corruption during roadside checks. He stressed that the mission of the National Gendarmerie is to serve the people of Burkina Faso with patriotism, loyalty, integrity, respect, dedication, and exemplary conduct. He urged members of the force to avoid behaviors that could damage the institution's image or undermine public trust.

Colonel Yaguibou advised gendarmes to adhere to financial discipline and live within their means, asserting that a successful career hinges on respecting rules and ethical principles. He tasked the commanders of the six Gendarmerie legions and group commanders with conducting similar awareness campaigns in their territories, focusing on control instructions, user courtesy, control transparency, and fairness.

The Minister of Security echoed this sentiment on Wednesday, addressing Security Forces deployed on roads, especially at the borders, with similar directives.