An alleged attempt to destabilize Chad was thwarted when state forces successfully repelled an attack on the presidential compound on Wednesday. The incident, which occurred in the capital, N’Djamena, resulted in the deaths of 19 people, 18 of whom were attackers, while one was a soldier. Chad’s foreign minister and government spokesman, Abderaman Koulamallah, initially reported the attack and described it as chaotic and orchestrated by individuals who appeared to be intoxicated.
The assault involved 24 knife-wielding individuals who breached the secure zone surrounding the presidential palace before being neutralized by security forces. In the aftermath, six individuals were arrested, though no substantial information has yet been provided about the potential organizers or motivations behind the attack. Authorities have urged patience as investigations continue, seeking to uncover the events leading to this unprecedented assault.
Further details provided by Agence France-Presse (AFP) indicated intense security measures following the attack, including roadblocks surrounding the presidential building and increased armed police presence. The incident prompted widespread anxiety among citizens, many of whom evacuated the area in a state of alarm.
This dramatic event unfolded shortly after a visit from Wang Yi, the Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was in Chad to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties. Both the Chadian and Chinese sides expressed interest in enhancing bilateral cooperation, and the timing of the attack has raised questions about possible linkages or implications for Chad’s foreign policy stance.
Chad has a history of political instability and conflict, having recently terminated its long-standing defense cooperation agreement with France in November 2024. This decision marked a significant shift in the country’s military alliances and capabilities, as France had previously provided essential logistical and intelligence support to Chad’s armed forces.
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