Operation Haskanite: Boko Haram ambush claims Chadian General, senior officers

At least six high-ranking officers and soldiers from the Republic of Chad reportedly lost their lives, with several others wounded, in a violent assault by Boko Haram terrorists on Chadian armed forces.

According to Zagazola Makama, a security expert, the ambush occurred on Friday, November 8, shortly after President Mahamat Idriss Déby left the area for the capital, Ndjamena.

He said, “Among the deceased are senior officers, including General Youssouf Abdoulaye Kari, General Adoum Issa, Colonel Lony Allatchi, Lieutenant Colonel Gorou Wardougou, Adam Nassour Mahamat, and Idrissa Malloum.

“The attack also left key figures wounded, including General François Tatiko, General Moubarack Formalick, Bokhit Bachar, Lieutenant Jean Pierre Medar, and Ibrahim Ali.

“General Youssouf Abdoulaye Kari, a respected veteran and former member of Chad’s contingent in Mali, was among those killed, leaving a significant gap in military leadership.”

Chadian Army spokesperson General Issakha Acheikh released a statement regarding the ambush but declined to give further details.

“The General Staff of the Armed Forces informs national and international communities that, following a reorganization of Defence and Security Force units by the President of the Republic, Supreme Chief of the Armed Forces, Operation Haskanite was launched to dislodge Boko Haram terrorists from Lake Chad. A clash occurred on Saturday, November 9, 2024.

“After hours of fighting, several terrorist elements were neutralized, and the raid continued,” he added. “A detailed report will be shared later.”