N’Djamena: off-duty police officer attacks colleagues at traffic stop

A scene of extraordinary violence unfolded around 5 PM near the Goudjé Barrière roundabout in N’Djamena, Chad. The incident occurred as traffic police officers were diligently managing vehicle flow to prevent significant congestion.

Initial reports indicate that the driver of a Toyota Corolla, equipped with tinted windows, attempted to bypass the traffic control measures, disregarding directives from the duty officers. A traffic brigade officer reportedly intervened, attempting to reason with the driver and enforce the regulations, which quickly escalated into a heated altercation.

The individual, identified as an active police officer who had been relieved of his duties (previously stationed at the 3rd arrondissement police station), allegedly brandished a pistol. He first discharged a warning shot into the air before firing directly at the police officers. Two agents sustained gunshot wounds, one reportedly struck in the ear. According to law enforcement personnel, their injuries are not life-threatening.

During the confrontation, officers successfully subdued the assailant and confiscated his weapon. However, before being fully neutralized, the individual also reportedly inflicted a knife wound to the forehead of another officer, right in front of the Goudjé Barrière roundabout.

The injured officers received immediate attention and were swiftly transported to a medical facility for treatment. Their health status is being closely monitored, with initial assessments offering reassurance regarding the victims who suffered gunshot wounds.

The aggressor was apprehended, handcuffed, and subsequently taken to the Police Secours premises, located within the General Directorate of Police. Several officers present during the incident indicated that the individual appeared to be in a state of inebriation at the time.

An investigation has been launched to thoroughly ascertain the precise circumstances surrounding this disturbing attack, which caused considerable alarm among both commuters and law enforcement personnel at the scene.