Chad launches security operation on Sudan border after drone strike

March 19, 2026 (TINE) – Chadian security forces launched a major operation on Thursday to seize weapons and military vehicles in the Tine border region following a deadly drone strike.

The crackdown comes after an attack on Wednesday in the Chadian town of Mabrouka that killed 16 people and wounded dozens. The strike is suspected to have been carried out by a drone from Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Local sources told Sudan Tribune that the Chadian army conducted house-to-house searches for weapons in the Tine area. Authorities also detained several Sudanese refugees on suspicion of involvement in security disturbances.

About 200 military vehicles were deployed along the border. Witnesses said some Chadian units entered Sudanese territory to confiscate military equipment during the operation.

Chadian authorities have tightened border controls for refugees. While people can still enter on foot, the movement of civilian vehicles has been banned. Security forces also prohibited the wearing of military uniforms and the “kadmool” turban.

A high-level government delegation, including the ministers of defence and public security, arrived in the Wadi Fira province on Thursday. The officials are assessing the security and humanitarian impact of the recent violence.

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby held an emergency meeting on Wednesday in response to the strike. A government statement said the military was ordered to respond firmly to any aggression from either the Sudanese army or the RSF.

Security officials believe Chadian civilians have been crossing into Sudan to help repel RSF attacks in the region. This movement is linked to the Zaghawa ethnic group, which spans the border and holds strategic influence in the area.