The Government of Benin has confirmed the death of 54 soldiers following a coordinated terrorist assault by the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM) on two military outposts in the northern part of the country.
The attack, which occurred earlier this week, was officially acknowledged after a Council of Ministers meeting.
JNIM claimed responsibility, stating they killed 70 soldiers, destroyed seven military vehicles, and seized a significant cache of weapons including mortars, RPGs, drones, and assault rifles.
Executive spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji noted the attackers aimed to demoralize the nation and its troops, but emphasized that Benin remains determined to overcome the threat.
He expressed concern over weak regional security cooperation, particularly with neighboring countries, which he believes enabled the militants to operate across borders.
President Patrice Talon has since convened high-level meetings with military leadership to reassess strategies and address equipment shortfalls.
Despite regular attacks since 2021, the government insists that no armed groups have established a lasting presence within Benin’s territory.
