Major Jihadist Attack In Togo Leaves Military Barracks Overwhelmed

In a devastating assault, more than 1,000 fighters from the jihadist group Ansaroul Islam, part of the Jamaat Nasratul al Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), attacked a Togolese military advanced barracks in the village of Kpankankandi, situated approximately 10-15 kilometers from the Burkinabe border.

The attack occurred on Saturday afternoon and highlights the growing insecurity in the region.

The area around Kpankankandi has experienced numerous incursions by jihadists based in Kompienga and Pama in Burkina Faso since 2021.

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The group controlling this part of Burkina Faso is led by Burkinabe Fulbe Iddrisa Dicko, also known as Sekou Mouslem.

According to sources, the sheer number of jihadist fighters overwhelmed the Togolese special forces, giving them little time to respond. After a brief but intense confrontation, the jihadists forced the Togolese forces into a disorderly retreat and maintained control of the barracks for several hours before withdrawing back to Burkina Faso, having emptied the barracks of its contents.

Togo’s Alleged Failed Attempts to Negotiate with JNIM:

Since the start of jihadist attacks in November 2021, nearly 150 people, including security forces, have lost their lives in Togo, with significant losses in war materials. Reports indicate that the Togolese government has attempted to negotiate with the jihadist group to halt the attacks and their advancement into Togo. However, these efforts have reportedly failed, with the jihadists showing no interest in the negotiations facilitated by a prominent NGO.

Jihadist Preconditions for Negotiation

The jihadists have set forth three main preconditions for any negotiation with the Togolese government:
1. The release of JNIM militants and other suspects from Togolese prisons.
2. Compensation for cattle or goods destroyed by Togolese forces during patrols.
3. Support for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Struggle for Mantiqa (Recognized Autonomous Region):

This large-scale attack may be part of JNIM fighters’ efforts in Togo to push for a mantiqa, a recognized autonomous region. This follows the jihadist group’s recent granting of a mantiqa to fighters of the Katiba Hanifa.