The Government of Côte d’Ivoire has vowed a resolute response following the killing of Second Lieutenant Daniogo Klenon Lassina, a Gendarmerie officer fatally shot during a security operation near Agboville in the early hours of Monday, October 20.
According to an official communiqué, the officer was leading a patrol tasked with dismantling armed barricades along the Agboville–Grand-Yapo–Azaguié road, a key transport corridor. The patrol reportedly came under fire approximately 500 meters from Grand Yapo, where masked assailants had blocked traffic and assaulted passengers. Lieutenant Lassina sustained gunshot wounds to the neck and abdomen and later succumbed to his injuries.
The government condemned the attack and pledged to pursue those responsible “with the greatest rigor.” In its statement, authorities paid tribute to the officer’s “courage, professionalism, and exemplary commitment,” extending condolences to his family and the National Gendarmerie.
Officials linked the violence to recent political unrest, noting that the incident occurred “on the sidelines of recent demonstrations.” The timing has heightened concerns over public safety ahead of the presidential election scheduled for Saturday, October 25.
Local media also reported other security incidents on the same day, including the alleged arson of thirteen buses belonging to the Abidjan Transport Company (SOTRA) at a depot in Koumassi, Abidjan. These developments have intensified fears of escalating unrest during the electoral period.
In its communiqué, the government reaffirmed the constitutional right to peaceful protest but warned that “under no circumstances” should demonstrations be used as a cover for violence or threats to human life.
Authorities have launched an investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
The government also issued a nationwide appeal for calm and unity, urging citizens to uphold the values of “justice, peace, and respect for the Republic.”
Security forces are expected to reinforce measures across the country in the coming days to ensure a safe and orderly election.
