# Cameroon Forms New Military Unit to Combat Boko Haram

> Cameroon launches Rapid Intervention Battalion to secure Lake Chad region from Boko Haram militants.
- Title: Cameroon Forms New Military Unit to Combat Boko Haram
- Summary: Cameroon launches Rapid Intervention Battalion to secure Lake Chad region from Boko Haram militants. Cameroon established a Rapid Intervention Battalion to…
- Keywords: cameroon, boko haram, rapid intervention battalion, lake chad, iswap, cameroonian military, military operations, news, world, politics, Forms, Military
- Source: Allafrica — https://allafrica.com/stories/202610150334.html
- Published: 2026-10-15T10:48:13+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cameroon, boko haram, rapid intervention battalion, lake chad, iswap, cameroonian military, military operations, news, world, politics
## 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.
## Key takeaway

Cameroon established a Rapid Intervention Battalion to disrupt Boko Haram's ISWAP faction and protect displaced civilians in Lake Chad region.