Ouagadougou: The Defense and Security Forces (FDS), the Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), and resource persons are working tirelessly to secure the 35th edition of the Tour International du Faso, which commenced on October 25. The competition traverses the cities and countryside of Burkina Faso, with the caravan receiving robust escort throughout all stages.According to Burkina Information Agency, the security measures involve men in uniforms, armed and on motorbikes, pick-ups, or civilian cars, ensuring the safety of the event. Captain Pierre Kaboré, a security official for the Tour, emphasized that the defense and security forces are fully mobilized across all stages. This extensive mobilization reassures the organizers and participants of the event's overall success, with Captain Kaboré expressing confidence that the Tour is proceeding smoothly.Captain Kaboré highlighted that the security strategy involves multiple parameters, with individuals working discreetly to provide intelligence on the routes. These efforts occur before, during, and after the Tour, involving individuals in civilian clothes who are not easily recognizable. Captain Kaboré expressed gratitude towards the leaders and hierarchy for their support throughout the Tour.The security measures also include VDPs stationed in the bushes along the roads and the use of sniffer dogs at the facilities, such as car podiums, tarpaulins, and chairs, at the start and finish lines. The hotels accommodating the cyclists are also secured to ensure the safety of all participants.Captain Kaboré is optimistic about the remaining stages, with the penultimate stage set to take place between Kombissiri and Kaya, covering a distance of 145.8 km. The current holder of the yellow leader's jersey is Moroccan cyclist El Kouradji Pohcine.