A wave of anxiety has swept through the capital city of N’Djamena, after gunshots erupted near the presidential palace, prompting government officials to address the situation amid rising concerns over stability in the region.
Chad’s Foreign Minister, Abderaman Koulamallah, sought to downplay the incident, referring to it as a “little incident” and reassuring the public that “everything is calm” in a video recorded from within the palace complex.
However, his remarks did little to assuage fears among the populace, as reports emerged of clashes between security forces and armed groups identified as “terrorist elements.”
According to sources close to the government, the violent exchange resulted in the deaths of 18 alleged attackers and one member of the security personnel.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in Chad, a landlocked country in northern-central Africa that has long struggled with instability and conflict.
Residents of N’Djamena expressed their alarm at the gunfire, reflecting a broader anxiety about the security situation in a country that has faced repeated upheavals.
Many are concerned that such incidents could signal a resurgence of violence, further complicating the fragile peace in the region.
As the government continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the gunfire, the international community remains watchful, emphasizing the need for stability in Chad to prevent any spillover effects into neighboring countries.
The situation remains fluid, and further updates are expected as authorities work to restore calm.