Tension has risen along the Niger-Chad border following a clash between Nigerien and Chadian troops in the Diffa region, after Nigerien forces reportedly encountered a patrol of the Chadian army while pursuing a group responsible for an attack on a military position.

According to security sources, the incident occurred on Saturday, August 15, 2026, near the border between Niger and Chad.

The Nigerien Armed Forces (FAN) were reportedly tracking elements suspected of attacking the Séguidine position on August 15 when the troops advanced towards the border area.

During the operation, the Nigerien troops encountered a patrol of the Chadian army operating in the same sector, resulting in an armed confrontation between the two forces.

The circumstances surrounding the clash remain unclear, including the extent of casualties or whether the incident resulted from a misunderstanding during the pursuit operation.

Following the confrontation, the Governor of Diffa Region reportedly convened an extraordinary regional security council to assess the situation and prevent further escalation.

Sources also indicated that the Chief of Army Staff (CEMAT), General Maman Sani Kiaou, was expected to travel to the region following the incident, although it was unclear whether he had already arrived at the time of reporting.

The incident comes amid heightened security operations in the border areas of Niger and Chad, where military forces operate against armed groups and other criminal networks exploiting the porous frontier.

The latest confrontation draw attention to the challenges faced by security forces operating in overlapping border zones, where pursuit operations can bring troops from neighbouring countries into close proximity.

Further details on the casualties, circumstances of the confrontation and measures being taken by both countries to prevent a recurrence are expected as authorities continue to assess the incident. (Zagazola)

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