Normalcy returned to N’Djamena, Chad’s capital, on Thursday after a deadly attack on the presidential palace claimed 19 lives, according to official reports.
The incident, which occurred Wednesday night, involved an armed group of 24 individuals launching an assault on the palace’s security personnel. Authorities reported that the attackers were armed with weapons, machetes, and knives.
Government spokesperson and Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah stated that 18 attackers were killed during the confrontation, while six were injured. A member of the presidential guard also lost his life, with three others sustaining injuries.
Describing the group as “criminals from a poor neighborhood,” Koulamallah downplayed the incident, calling it a failed attempt to create unrest.
Security measures, including roadblocks and patrols, were relaxed by Thursday morning, and activity resumed around the presidential complex.
Chad’s president, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, was reportedly in the palace at the time but remained unharmed. In a video statement following the incident, Koulamallah assured the public that the situation was under control, labeling the attack as an act of desperation.
However, opposition groups expressed skepticism, with some suggesting the event may have been staged to justify stricter security measures. Authorities have promised additional details in a briefing to diplomats and the public later on Thursday.
The attack highlights the volatile security situation in Chad, where a military-led government has been in power since 2021, following President Deby Itno’s rise to leadership after the death of his father.