Thu Jan 09 03:32:15 UTC 2025: ## Chad Presidential Palace Attack Leaves 19 Dead
**N’Djamena, Chad –** An attack on the presidential palace in N’Djamena, Chad, on January 8, 2025, resulted in the deaths of 19 people, according to the government. Eighteen of the deceased were attackers who attempted to storm the complex, while one member of the security forces was killed. Six attackers were injured.
The assault, which began around 7:45 p.m. local time, involved a 24-member commando unit. Initial reports suggested involvement by Boko Haram, but the government later downplayed this, describing the attackers as a “drunken” group and suggesting they were not terrorists.
Gunfire and the presence of tanks were reported near the presidential palace by AFP reporters. Civilians fled the area as armed police secured the perimeter. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno was present in the palace during the attack, according to government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah, who stated the situation was quickly brought under control.
The attack comes less than two weeks after a contested general election and amidst ongoing security challenges in the region. Chad, under military rule, faces regular attacks from Boko Haram, particularly in the Lake Chad region. The country recently ended a military accord with France and has been accused of interference in the Sudanese conflict. The nation’s strategic partnerships have shifted towards countries such as Russia and Hungary.
First Piper 