On the evening of Wednesday, January 3, a gunfight erupted near and inside the presidential palace in N’Djamena, plunging the Chadian capital into a state of tension and fear. According to authorities, the attack, described as a “suicidal mission,” was quickly contained, though its details raise numerous questions.
A Coordinated and Unexpected Assault
The attack began around 8:50 PM local time when heavy gunfire was reported in central N’Djamena near the presidency. According to reports, the assailants, a group of 25 individuals, arrived in a Dyna vehicle that appeared to have broken down in front of the palace gates. After exiting the vehicle violently, they stabbed four presidential guards, killing one, before attempting to penetrate further into the building.
Residents of the capital, terrified by the events, reported hearing gunfire late into the night. One resident told the BBC she was too afraid to leave her home, while others described the attack as a desperate coup attempt.
Swift Response and Heavy Toll
Chadian security forces responded quickly and decisively. According to Foreign Minister and government spokesperson Abdourahmane Koulamallah, the incident resulted in 19 deaths, including 18 among the assailants. Six people were also injured.
“The situation is fully under control,” the minister stated in a Facebook video from within the presidential compound, surrounded by soldiers in military fatigues and armored vehicles stationed nearby. He noted that the assailants were unarmed with firearms, ruling out the possibility of a terrorist attack. “They acted with extreme violence, but the situation was eradicated swiftly,” he added.
Ongoing Investigation
Prosecutor Oumar Mahamat Kedelaye described the attack as “acts of extreme gravity” involving crimes against the state, conspiracy, and participation in an insurrectionary movement. He announced that investigations were underway to identify the instigators, participants, and accomplices and apply the full force of the law.
A Troubled Context
The attack comes amid rising tensions in Chad, particularly following the withdrawal of French troops from N’Djamena, a consequence of the end of defense agreements between France and Chad. This withdrawal, also observed in other Sahel countries, reflects a repositioning of forces in the region and fuels uncertainty among the population.
Unverified videos circulating on social media show bodies of fighters allegedly involved in the attack, while authorities continue efforts to reassure the public. Although the attackers’ exact motives remain unclear, the failed attempt highlights the security challenges facing the country.
Conclusion
Although the attack was contained, it underscores the fragility of Chad’s security situation and the complexity of the political challenges surrounding the country. The government will need to redouble its efforts to ensure stability and restore citizens’ confidence in the face of such unpredictable threats.
