After days of intense airstrikes, Chad’s military operation “Haskanite” has now transitioned to a ground and riverine offensive in the Kaiga Kindjiria region.
The campaign, aimed at dismantling Boko Haram’s presence, moved into its final phase on November 6, ten days after its initial launch.
Previously, the Chadian army focused its efforts on aerial bombardments targeting the militant group’s positions.
However, according to a statement from the Presidential Communications Directorate, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, who is personally overseeing the operation, has now ordered direct engagement with Boko Haram fighters.
Wearing his general’s uniform, insignia proudly displayed, and a pistol at his side, President Déby visited the frontline at Kaiga Kindjiria on November 6.
Since October 28, he has been stationed in the Lake Province, following a Boko Haram attack on a military base on October 27, which claimed the lives of around 40 Chadian soldiers.
Addressing the troops as the ground and riverine operations commenced, Déby declared, “The Chadian soldier is a man of honor; he never retreats from the enemy.
Boko Haram should know that their days in this lake region are numbered.”
Units equipped with vehicles and motorized canoes have been strategically deployed across several sectors, with the president rallying the troops by shouting, “High morale, high morale!” Footage released by the Presidency shows Déby leading the naval convoy from the frontlines.
Operation “Haskanite” serves as a response to the October 27 attack on the Chadian military base in Barkaram, located in the Lake Province.
Official reports indicate that the assault left 40 soldiers dead and about 30 others wounded.
