On September 16-17, 2026, around 2:00 a.m., approximately ten members of the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP) terrorist organisation, an armed jihadist group affiliated with Islamic State (IS), launched a deliberate attack on peaceful citizens in the village of Madegoua, situated 11 kilometres from the Makary Subdivision in the Logone-et-Chari Division of the Far-North Region of Cameroon. The victims were caught unawares in their sleep.
Personnel from the 1st Sector of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), stationed in Makary, swiftly deployed to the scene to intervene, assist the victims, and secure the area. Their assessment established that 13 civilians were brutally murdered at the scene, one civilian subsequently died from their injuries at MADA Hospital, and two civilians were seriously injured and admitted to intensive care at MADA Hospital.
A large-scale manhunt and combing operation was immediately launched, with close coordination between all forces deployed in the area. An enhanced security presence remains in place to ensure the safety and tranquillity of the local population, and to handle any situation that may arise. The victims' funerals were held immediately, in an atmosphere of solemnity and dignity, in the presence of local administrative, military, religious, and traditional authorities, as well as the families of the deceased.
The Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the Head of State, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to the bereaved families and extended his wishes for a speedy recovery to the wounded victims. He reiterated the firm determination of the Defence and Security Forces to protect the local population.
According to the Ministry of Defence, nine Boko Haram militants were neutralised during the operation. The Defence Forces remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the local population. The attack has been strongly condemned by the government and the international community.
The Far-North Region of Cameroon has been a hotspot for terrorist activities in recent years, with groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP carrying out attacks on civilians and security forces. The government has deployed troops to the region to combat terrorism and restore peace.
The Cameroon government has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The government has also promised to provide support to the families of the victims and to those affected by the attack.
Key points
- Nine Boko Haram militants were neutralised in the operation.
- Fourteen civilians were killed in the terrorist attack.
- The Defence Forces remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the local population.
