Recent news has been marked by a tragic incident at a French forces base in Faya-Largeau, in northern Chad. A French military nurse was attacked by a Chadian soldier during a medical consultation open to the inhabitants of the region. The precise details of the incident are still unclear, but it was reported that the Chadian soldier assaulted the medic with a scalpel, seriously injuring him. In a gesture of self-defense, the nurse would have responded by using his service weapon, unfortunately killing the Chadian soldier.
The incident aroused great emotion both in France and in Chad. Joint investigations by the Chadian and French authorities are currently underway to determine the exact circumstances of this tragedy. The reasons which led the Chadian soldier to attack the medic remain unknown for the moment, but Chadian sources have suggested that the soldier was in an abnormal state at the time of the attack.
This sad affair highlights the dangers faced daily by soldiers engaged in missions abroad. French soldiers deployed in Chad and in other countries demonstrate exemplary courage and dedication to ensure security and provide medical assistance to local populations. Unfortunately, this time around, a tragic event has occurred, with devastating consequences for everyone involved.
At such times, it is important to remember that isolated acts should not call into question the entire support and cooperation mission put in place by the French forces. Ongoing investigations will shed light on this incident and draw the necessary lessons to avoid such incidents in the future.
Our hearts go out to the families of the deceased Chadian soldier and the injured medic, as well as to all the French and Chadian soldiers who continue to work together to ensure stability and security in the region.
Let us remain united and continue to support our armed forces, which act with professionalism and dedication in often very difficult contexts.