Since the start of 2025, N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, has been grappling with an alarming surge in insecurity.
Robberies, armed thefts, assaults, and murders have become commonplace in the Chadian capital since early 2025, plunging residents into a climate of fear and uncertainty.
The latest incident, which occurred on the evening of 12 March, stunned the population. Four armed men attacked a currency exchange office near the central market, making off with over 100 million CFA francs. This brazen robbery comes just two months after the murder of another money changer in broad daylight.
Vehicle break-ins, attacks on motorcyclists, and daily acts of violence are rising at an alarming rate, leaving merchants and residents deeply concerned.
Responses to the crisis are mounting.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Republic’s Mediator, Saleh Kebzabo, voiced his frustration: “Enough is enough. Every day, there’s theft, murder, assassination, rape, robbery, kidnapping—the list goes on. Insecurity has become unbearable, and what happened yesterday at the market is yet more proof. The government must act.”
Security forces under pressure
Facing criticism for delayed responses, Chad’s National Police launched a large-scale operation in February to secure the capital. Over 200 individuals suspected of disturbing public order were arrested, and numerous stolen items were recovered.
Despite these efforts, crime rates show no signs of abating, and the pervasive sense of insecurity lingers among the population. Last month, Public Security Minister Ahmat Aghabach pledged measures to restore calm. Yet, a month later, the atmosphere of fear continues to intensify.
CA/te/sf/lb/as/APA