Chadian government dismisses accusations of civilian casualties in anti-terror operations
The Chadian government has firmly rejected allegations from the United Nations that its airstrikes against Boko Haram in the Lake Chad basin resulted in civilian deaths. During a press briefing on Thursday, May 14, officials demanded concrete evidence and offered to host an independent investigation team.
UN alleges civilian casualties from joint military operations
In a statement issued on Sunday, the United Nations claimed that airstrikes—allegedly conducted by Nigerian and Chadian forces—had caused around a hundred civilian fatalities in northeastern Nigeria and Chad. Some of these incidents reportedly occurred during operations targeting Boko Haram strongholds, prompting calls for an immediate investigation.
Government spokesperson counters accusations with strong rebuttal
Gassim Chérif Mahamat, Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, dismissed the claims as unfounded. “We respond with astonishment,” he stated. “These serious allegations appear designed to undermine the credibility of the Chadian Armed Forces, despite their proven track record in combating terrorism across the Sahel and Lake Chad region. This is a highly professional military that has consistently delivered results.”
He further asserted that the targeted areas contained no civilians or fishermen, adding, “No formal evidence currently supports these accusations.” N’Djamena has since reiterated its willingness to conduct internal probes and invited the United Nations or other international bodies to participate in independent on-site investigations.
Security measures and socio-economic strategies in focus
The spokesperson emphasized that the ongoing state of emergency in the region is strictly aimed at protecting civilians and ensuring their safety. Military and security personnel remain permanently deployed to maintain order and prevent further threats.
He also highlighted the dual approach Chad employs in countering Boko Haram: a robust security framework paired with socio-economic development initiatives. Significant state investments have been made in the area to combat radicalization driven by poverty and inadequate infrastructure.
“Chad bears the heaviest burden,” Mahamat stressed, noting the country’s substantial human and military sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. He underscored that Chad is not the only Lake Chad basin nation involved, adding that close collaboration with Nigeria remains a cornerstone of the regional counter-terrorism strategy.
Recent attacks by Boko Haram spark renewed tensions
On May 4 and 6, the jihadist group launched assaults on Chadian military positions, resulting in multiple casualties. N’Djamena firmly attributes these acts of violence to Boko Haram, rejecting any implication that its own forces were responsible.
