Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso – (African Boulevard News) – Two Moroccan cyclists have been reported missing for several days on the border between Burkina Faso and Niger, according to a Moroccan diplomatic source on Friday.
The source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the two cyclists, identified as Abderrahmane and Mohamed, were last seen on April 23, heading towards the town of Dori in northern Burkina Faso.
The missing cyclists were part of a larger group who had started their journey from Casablanca, Morocco, towards the West African coast.
The Moroccan embassy in Burkina Faso has been in contact with local authorities, and a search operation has been launched to locate the two cyclists, who were said to be experienced and well-equipped.
According to the Moroccan embassy, the search operation involves several teams, including local security forces, border patrols, and community-led search groups.
The embassy also urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the missing cyclists to come forward and assist in the search efforts.
The disappearance of the Moroccan cyclists has once again highlighted the security challenges facing West Africa, which has seen a surge in extremist violence and kidnappings in recent years.
According to the Global Peace Index, Burkina Faso is currently ranked 143rd out of 163 countries in terms of safety and security, with a high risk of terrorism and violent crime.
Several foreign nationals, including tourists and aid workers, have been kidnapped in the region in recent years, with some still being held hostage.
The Moroccan cyclists’ disappearance is a reminder that travelers must take necessary precautions and ensure they have adequate safety measures in place, especially when traveling to high-risk areas.
The Moroccan embassy in Burkina Faso has advised its citizens to exercise caution and to avoid traveling to the northern regions of the country.
As the search for the missing cyclists continues, the Moroccan embassy has assured their families that they are doing everything in their power to locate them.
“We are working closely with the local authorities and are hopeful that they will be found safe and sound,” the embassy said in a statement.
The Moroccan cyclists’ disappearance is a stark reminder of the dangers facing those who venture into high-risk areas. The search for Abderrahmane and Mohamed continues, and the thoughts of the entire international community are with their families and loved ones during this difficult time.
