03 Sep 2018 | 02:38 PM UTC
Chad: Security forces bombarded rebel positions in Tibesti region September 1 /update 1
Military forces bombarded suspected rebel positions in the northern Tibesti town September 1
Event
On Saturday, September 1, the Chadian military reportedly bombarded suspected rebel positions around the northern town of Tibesti, located near the border with Libya. According to a security source, the bombardment targeted a site between the localities of Miski and Yebibou. According to a local source, at least ten people were injured during the operation - an allegation which could not be confirmed as of Monday, September 3. A heightened security presence is to be anticipated in Tibesti in the near-term. Further military operations are possible in the coming days and weeks.
Context
On August 25, the Chadian military announced it had deployed additional forces to the country's border with Libya to prevent incursions from rebel groups operating in Libya and opposed to President Idriss Deby. The military operations are also in response to a series of clashes that took place between illegal miners and security forces on August 11, leading to the deaths of at least 15 people in Iri Bourgouri. The arrival of illegal miners in recent years in an area troubled by a gold rush has fomented unrest with locals.
Advice
Individuals in Tibesti are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid mining areas, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
In general, due to the high terrorist threat, individuals in Chad are advised to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities and remain vigilant at all times, especially when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (e.g., public transportation, train stations, airports, public or government buildings, embassies or consulates, international organizations, schools and universities, religious sites, markets, hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners/Westerners, festivals, etc.). For these and other security reasons, many Western governments advise against all travel to areas near the borders with Niger, Libya, Sudan, Central African Republic, Cameroon, and Nigeria, and the Lake Chad region, as well as nonessential travel to the rest of the country, including N'Djamena. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to or within the country.
