At least 19 people, including 18 gunmen, were killed in a recent attack on Chad's presidential complex. The assailants were overpowered by security forces. The attack, suspected to involve Boko Haram, was swiftly controlled. Chad remains under military rule and faces frequent terrorist threats in the western Lake Chad region.
On January 9, 2025, gunmen launched an attack on the presidential complex in Chad, leaving at least 19 dead. The assault occurred around 7:45 p.m., with gunfire heard near the building. A commando unit of 24 attackers engaged in the assault, resulting in the deaths of 18 assailants and one security guard. Several others were injured, including three security personnel.
Chad's government spokesperson, Abderaman Koulamallah, confirmed that the situation was quickly brought under control, describing the attackers as intoxicated and disorganized. Initially suspected to be Boko Haram members, Koulamallah later dismissed this assumption, referring to them as "Pieds Nickeles," a term denoting hapless criminals. The gunmen first confronted four guards before entering the complex, where they were overwhelmed.
Chad has experienced regular attacks by terrorist groups, particularly Boko Haram, in the western Lake Chad region. The country recently ended a military agreement with France. Earlier that day, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno. The attack highlights the ongoing instability in Chad, which remains under military rule.
