JAS Denies Chadian Military Airstrikes After Deadly Ambush on Troops Near Niger-Chad Border
By: Zagazola Makama
On November 9, 2024, Impeccable sources
provided insight into a deadly ambush by Jama’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihad (JAS) on Chadian forces near the Kaiga-Kingeria region, northeast of Kaukiri along the Niger-Chad border.
The attack, which targeted Chadian troops transporting watercraft for operations in the Lake Chad region, resulted in over 15 soldiers killed and 35 wounded, according to Chadian authorities.
JAS fighters reportedly deployed weaponized IEDs, RPGs, and machine guns, overwhelming the Chadian troops, who were left in disarray. Multiple soldiers reportedly drowned, while others were captured and killed in nearby rivers. JAS claims to have seized three large boats, destroyed two others, and captured a significant number of weapons.
Following the incident, Chadian authorities initially claimed airstrikes were conducted against JAS positions. However, JAS has denied any airstrikes occurred, also rejecting reports of French involvement in the operation. The group stated it is preparing video footage to dispute Chadian accounts of the ambush.
The ambush has deeply impacted troop morale in Chad, especially as recovered bodies, including those of two generals, were buried. Reports from Chad’s National Security Agency indicate that intelligence on a potential attack had been relayed to military leaders, including the president, two days before the ambush.
However, the president’s sudden departure from the frontline for N’Djamena may have left troops more exposed to JAS forces.
The attack, described as more severe than recent ambushes in the Baggara and Boma regions, raises significant concerns about ongoing security challenges in the Lake Chad area.
