22 Aug 2019 | 11:31 PM UTC
Chad: Borders with Libya, Central African Republic closed as of August 21 /update 2
Borders with Libya and the Central African Republic closed as of August 21; security concerns cited
Event
Defense Minister Mahamat Abali Sala announced on Wednesday, August 21, that Chad has closed its land borders with Libya to the north and the Central African Republic to the south, citing security concerns. The measure comes days after Chad shut down its border with Sudan and declared a three-month state of emergency in Sila, Ouaddaï, and Tibesti regions due to a spike in inter-communal violence. Sala stated that a heightened security presence can be expected in the affected areas over the coming months as the Chadian government seeks to limit violence in the east.
Context
President Idriss Deby initially announced the state of emergency on August 18 after ongoing inter-communal violence left at least 109 people dead in recent weeks. According to the government, the state of emergency will help maintain and restore public order following recent inter-communal violence, and increase control over the country's borders to prevent weapon and human trafficking.
Advice
Individuals in Chad are advised to monitor the situation, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and anticipate heightened security measures.
