Miski committee issues new warning
The Miski Self-Defence Committee has issued a statement accusing the Chadian government of preparing military action against local communities opposing disputed gold mining activities in the Tibesti region.
In a declaration dated October 15, 2026, and signed by its president, Alhadj Djimi Chaha, the committee condemned what it described as preparations for a drone offensive against civilians.
The group argued that security or economic considerations could not justify the use of military weapons against the civilian population.
The alleged drone strike preparations have not been independently verified.
Mining company and senior military official named
The committee also accused government institutions and defence and security forces of enabling the exploitation of natural resources for private interests.
It identified Souroube International Business as a company allegedly benefiting from state support in the region.
According to the statement, the company belongs to General Bokit Ali Diar, coordinator of the National Brigade for the Control of Mining Activities (BNCAM).
The committee argued that Chad's mineral wealth belongs to the entire population and should not be controlled for the benefit of a single company or particular group.
The allegations concerning ownership and misuse of government resources remain independently unverified.
Withdrawal from mining sites demanded
The Miski Self-Defence Committee demanded the immediate withdrawal of General Bokit Ali Diar and BNCAM personnel from mining sites in Miski.
It also called for Souroube International Business to cease its activities in the area.
The group insisted that the government respect the peace agreement signed on April 20, 2025, and end what it described as military intimidation.
Deadly clashes raise tensions
The statement followed fighting on October 14 between Chadian troops and local armed elements in Miski.
Chad's General Staff reported that two officers had been killed and nine soldiers wounded in an attack it attributed to the Miski Self-Defence Committee.
Military authorities ordered the group to disarm immediately and warned that failure to comply would be treated as rebellion.
The committee expressed regret over the casualties but rejected claims that it bore sole responsibility for the violence.
The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain disputed.
Peace agreement faces renewed pressure
The Chadian government and the Miski Self-Defence Committee signed a peace agreement in Bardaï on April 20, 2025, seeking to end years of confrontation over mining activities and regional security.
The agreement included a ceasefire, amnesty provisions, the possible integration of eligible former fighters into national security forces and arrangements affecting mining permits and operations.
However, disagreements over implementation have persisted.
The committee maintains that key commitments remain unfulfilled, while government authorities have defended their implementation of the agreement.
Calls for mediation and civilian protection
In its latest statement, the committee urged the government to avoid further escalation and called on mediators to intervene without delay.
It reaffirmed its stated commitment to dialogue, civilian protection and implementation of the peace agreement.
The dispute highlights continuing tensions between the government and local armed groups over gold resources and security arrangements in northern Chad.