From Allafrica · · 1m 10s
Cameroon Forms New Military Unit to Combat Boko Haram
Cameroon launches Rapid Intervention Battalion to secure Lake Chad region from Boko Haram militants.
In brief
Cameroon launches Rapid Intervention Battalion to secure Lake Chad region from Boko Haram militants. Cameroon established a Rapid Intervention Battalion to disrupt Boko Haram's ISWAP faction and protect displaced civilians in Lake Chad region. Originally reported by Allafrica.
Cameroon's new military unit
Cameroon's Defence Minister Joseph Beti Assomo announced a Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) Lake Chad unit to counter Boko Haram violence.
Recent attacks force displacement
Recent assaults in Darak, Bargaram and Hilé-Alifa displaced over 11 300 residents from homes.
New military bases established
Hilé-Alifa features the second-largest barracks for rapid intervention battalions with dormitories, command posts, kitchens and medical centre.
BIR Lake Chad's primary goal
BIR Lake Chad aims to disrupt ISWAP's logistical networks and prevent expansion into northern Cameroon.
Displaced civilians seek safety
Over three days in February, 668 households comprising 4 223 people fled Bargaram and Darak to safer areas.
Military coordination challenges
Lack of unified military command structure hinders effective counter-terrorism efforts across Cameroon.
Regional cooperation needed
Engaging Nigerian, Niger and Chadian armed forces is essential to address regional Boko Haram threat.
The one thing
Cameroon established a Rapid Intervention Battalion to disrupt Boko Haram's ISWAP faction and protect displaced civilians in Lake Chad region.
