Togo has been shaken by a series of tragic events as the nation mourns the loss of over 30 lives in what authorities are labeling as “terrorist attacks.” The incidents have prompted urgent responses from security forces and raised concerns about the evolving security landscape in the region.
In 2023, Togo reported “31 deaths, 29 injured and 3 missing” in “terrorist” incidents, Yawa Kouigan, Minister of Communication and government spokesperson, told Reporters.
“Our country experienced an ambush attack, 11 clashes with armed terrorist groups, 9 explosions of improvised explosive devices and 20 discoveries and neutralization of improvised explosive devices,” she said.
According to the minister, “the first terrorist attack” took place in Sanloaga in the Kpendjal prefecture in November 2021, and “was followed by several incursions and incidents in the savannah region”, in the north of the country, near the border with Burkina Faso.
The northern regions of Benin, Togo and Ghana are suffering attacks and incursions from jihadist groups who thrive in the Sahel and seek to move south.
As Togo grapples with the aftermath of these devastating attacks, the nation is united in mourning and determination. The government’s swift response, enhanced security measures, and collaboration with regional and international partners underscore a collective commitment to safeguarding the nation and addressing the challenges posed by terrorism.
AMN | Anochie’s Report | Lome.