By Abigail Philip David
Chadian security forces successfully thwarted an assault on the presidential palace in N’Djamena on Wednesday night by suspected Boko Haram militants. The attack was repelled with several attackers killed and others captured.
Footage circulating on social media showed intense exchanges of gunfire as Chad’s Directorate General of Security Services and Internal Exile (DGSSIE) engaged the assailants.
Counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama confirmed the swift containment of the attack, stating, “DGSSIE forces neutralized several Boko Haram attackers, ensuring the safety of government institutions and personnel.”
While casualty figures remain unclear, local reports indicate that critical intelligence might be gathered from the captured militants. Security in the area had been heightened recently, with communication networks temporarily shut down to prevent breaches.
CNN reported that 18 attackers were killed, six were captured, and one soldier died, with three others injured. The incident occurred while President Mahamat Deby Itno was inside the palace. Order was quickly restored following the confrontation.
Coincidentally, the attack took place during a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who commended Chad’s efforts to reestablish constitutional order.
Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah assured citizens during a live broadcast that the situation was “completely under control,” attributing the attackers’ lack of coordination to possible intoxication.
Though some officials suggested the attackers might have been local youths rather than a coordinated terrorist effort, the incident underscores ongoing security challenges in Chad and the broader Lake Chad region, where Boko Haram remains a persistent threat.
