29 Feb 2024 | 12:59 AM UTC
Chad: Heightened security almost certain in the coming days in N'Djamena following attack as of Feb. 28 /update 2
Increased securit likely in N'Djamena, Chad, through at least early March following attack as of Feb. 28.
Heightened security is almost certain in N'Djamena through at least early March following an attack against the Chadian National State Security Agency (ANSE) late Feb. 27. Preliminary reports indicate that several people died in the attack, including two members of the ANSE and at least two members of the opposition, after the arrest of Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF) Secretary of Finance, Abakar Torabi, at around 18:00 Feb. 27.
Chadian security forces carried out a security operation Feb. 28 to arrest party leader Yaya Dillo Djerou in various locations, including Klemat, Bololo, and Mardjan-Daffack. Reports indicate that the PSF party headquarters came under heavy gunfire as security personnel sought to apprehend the alleged perpetrators of the ANSE attack. Moreover, increased security was reported along Charles de Gaulle Avenue leading up to the PSF party offices in the Klemat neighborhood. Following a security operation, authorities announced the death of Dillo.
The government confirmed several fatalities during the attack on the ANSE office but did not immediately provide further details. There have been no claims of responsibility for the incident. According to a government statement, the situation is "under control," and some suspects are in custody. The incident comes one day after authorities announced the next presidential election scheduled for May. 6.
Security will likely remain tight in N'Djamena and major cities over the coming days. Authorities could implement restrictions on telecommunications, as well as checkpoints and curfews. Localized business and transport disruptions are probable until the situation stabilizes. Clashes between supporters of the PSF party and security forces could occur with little to no warning. Protests by party activists are possible over the coming days.
Exercise a high degree of caution if operating in N'Djamena. Avoid government buildings, security installations, large concentrations of police and soldiers, and any demonstrations that may materialize. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Plan for possible disruptions to telecommunication networks if the situation becomes unstable. Plan for possible enhanced security measures, including curfews and other movement restrictions. Refrain from taking photographs in public spaces due to heightened tensions nationwide. Carry proper identification and travel documents at all times. Maintain contact with diplomatic missions.
Opposition party candidate Yaya Dillo Djerou, head of the Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF), has been a continued subject of scrutiny by the Chadian government. On Feb. 28, 2021, security forces raided Dillo's home, killing several family members, including his mother and son. Dillo, former rebel leader, allegedly accused members of the presidential guard of carrying out a warrant for his arrest after failing to reply to two judicial mandates, according to a government statement.
Around 18:00 Feb. 27, security services arrested the Secretary of Finance Abakar Torabi, a member of the Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF). After an exchange of gunfire between elements of the security forces and Torabi's entourage, Torabi was injured and treated at the General Hospital of National Renaissance (HGRN). Upon his detainment at the hospital, members of the PSF allegedly sought to free Torabi when security services moved Torabi to the ANSE headquarters, where supporters of the PSF party reportedly attacked the compound. Reports indicate that at least a dozen individuals were injured or arrested. Following the attack at the ANSE compound, security services engaged in a search and sweep operation in various neighborhoods of N'Djamena, including Klemat, Bololo, and Mardjan-Daffack the following morning. A heavy exchange of gunfire occurred at the headquarters of the PSF, located near the South African Embassy, around 14:00 Feb. 28.
Authorities allege Torabi and Dillo engaged in an attempted assassination of the President of the Supreme Court, Samir Adam Annour, following the High Court's rejection of Dillo's presidential candidate application around Feb. 19. Upon the death of Dillo, General Saley Deby Itno, cousin of Dillo, was subsequently arrested by Chadian security forces Feb. 28 for his alleged involvement following his membership to the PSF party on Feb. 12.
