Benin’s armed forces endured significant losses in a deadly attack near its northern border with Niger and Burkina Faso, regions troubled by insurgency. Colonel Faizou Gomina, the national guard’s chief of staff, described the assault on one of the country’s best-equipped military positions as a "hard blow."

The attack, which occurred on Wednesday evening in the Alibori region, has underscored the growing threat of jihadist incursions from neighboring countries. While the military has not confirmed the death toll, sources report conflicting figures: The opposition party claims about 30 soldiers were killed, while AFP cites a security source putting the number at 28.

The assault marks another grim chapter in Benin’s struggle against militant violence, with over 120 military personnel reportedly killed since 2021. Last month, three soldiers were killed and four injured in a separate attack on an oil pipeline in the northeast. Despite deploying nearly 3,000 troops in 2022 to secure its borders, Benin continues to face persistent threats from armed groups.

In response to the latest attack, the military has launched "cleaning-up operations" and claims to have neutralized 40 assailants so far. Col Gomina called for immediate revisions to operational strategies, urging military commanders to enhance their preparedness and effectiveness.

"Wake up, officers and section chiefs, we have battles to win," Col Gomina stated, signaling the urgency of fortifying defenses in the region.

The escalating violence highlights the challenges facing Benin as it contends with the growing influence of jihadist groups in West Africa, threatening regional stability.