Fri Jan 10 16:10:00 UTC 2025: **Chad Repels Attack on Presidential Palace; 19 Killed**
N’DJAMENA, Chad—At least 19 people were killed in a failed attack on the presidential palace in N’Djamena, Chad, on Wednesday evening. The Chadian government reported that 18 armed assailants were killed attempting to storm the complex, while one member of the security forces also perished in the ensuing gun battle. Three more security personnel were injured.
The attack occurred hours after a visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who met with President Mahamat Idriss Deby and other officials. President Deby was present in the palace during the assault. China’s foreign ministry issued a statement expressing firm support for Chad’s efforts to maintain stability.
While an initial security source suggested the attackers were linked to Boko Haram, Chadian Foreign Minister and government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah later described them as a group of intoxicated individuals, possibly not affiliated with any known rebel group, referring to them as “Pieds Nickeles,” a term for hapless criminals. Other sources described the incident as an attempted terrorist attack.
Residents reported hearing heavy gunfire. The assault comes less than two weeks after a general election criticized by the opposition for low turnout and allegations of fraud. The election was seen by the government as a step toward ending military rule.
The attack also follows Chad’s recent termination of defense agreements with France, leading to the withdrawal of approximately 1,000 French troops. This decision is part of a broader trend in the Sahel region, where several countries have severed ties with France’s military presence.
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