An attack on Chad’s presidential palace has resulted in the deaths of 18 assailants and the detention of six others, while one soldier was killed and three others wounded, as reported by state media on Thursday. The incident took place on Wednesday night while President Mahamat Deby Itno was inside the palace; however, authorities quickly asserted that the situation was under control. In a live Facebook broadcast, Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah reassured the public, stating, “The situation is completely under control. There is no fear.”

Koulamallah highlighted the effectiveness of the palace guards, characterizing the assailants as “disorganized” and under the influence of alcohol and drugs. When asked about the nature of the attack, he suggested it was unlikely to be linked to terrorism, noting that the attackers were local youths from the capital, N’Djamena.

The incident coincided with a visit from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who had just congratulated Deby Itno on the reestablishment of constitutional order. Following the attack, speculation arose online regarding a possible link to the Boko Haram militant group, known for its insurgency in Nigeria and its spread into North Africa, including Chad.

Chad has faced ongoing political turmoil, particularly after the controversial presidential elections that solidified Deby Itno’s leadership. He assumed command as interim president after his father’s death in 2021 and has since navigated a complex political landscape.

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