Chadian authorities have detained several security officers accused of collaborating with Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), commonly known as Boko Haram, to facilitate attacks in Baggara, Lac Province.
The arrests, part of the ongoing Operation Haskinate, were disclosed through interrogation videos released on November 15, 2024.
Among the detainees is a member of the Guran ethnic group, historically linked to opposition against the late President Idriss Déby’s Zaghawa-led government. Ethnic tensions between the Guran, associated with former leader Hissène Habré, and the Zaghawa tribe, now led by President Mahamat Idriss Déby, add complexity to the case.
During interrogation, one suspect reportedly expressed allegiance to Boko Haram and its jihadist ideology, criticizing the Zaghawa tribe for not adhering strictly to Islamic teachings. He declared intentions to achieve “Shahada” (martyrdom) and emphasized that “power belongs to Allah and Muslims,” while dismissing the predominantly Christian Sara ethnic group as illegitimate participants in Chad’s governance.
The suspect also claimed global jihadist support, citing sympathizers in Saudi Arabia, Palestine, and Chad. While denying plans for outright war, he advocated for religiously motivated “fighting” and called on Chadian Muslims to resist perceived “unbelievers.”
Despite the suspect’s incendiary remarks, troops assured him he would not face execution.
The arrests come amid rising concerns over militant infiltration within Chad’s security forces and increased insurgent activities in Lac Province, a region marked by cross-border instability. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the alleged collusion and its implications for national security.
, commonly known as Boko Haram, to facilitate attacks in Baggara, Lac Province.){kind=link}