19 Killed in Chad After Armed Attack on Presidential Complex

At least 19 people were killed in Chad after security forces thwarted an armed attempt to storm the presidential complex in the capital, N’Djamena, on Wednesday evening. According to the government, 18 of the attackers, part of a group of 24, were killed in the clash, along with one member of the security forces. 

The attack occurred hours after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi concluded a meeting with Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby and other senior officials. The timing of the assault coincided with the Chinese minister’s visit, though President Deby was reportedly in the presidential complex during the attack.

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In a video appearance shortly after the assault, Chad’s military spokesperson, Koulamallah, declared the situation was under control, describing the attackers as a destabilising force that had been successfully repelled. While initial reports suggested the attackers were linked to the Boko Haram armed group, Koulamallah later dismissed this, instead referring to them as “drunken crooks,” implying they were not rebels.

The incident has raised concerns about the stability of Chad, with some speculating that the attack may have been an attempted terrorist action. China’s foreign ministry has expressed support for Chad’s efforts to maintain security in the wake of the violence.