Under the cover of darkness, militants infiltrated Wulgo near Lake Chad in Nigeria, launching a rocket-propelled grenade attack.
This assault, potentially aided by armed drones, resulted in significant casualties for Cameroonian troops.
This incident highlights a growing trend of militants in West Africa adapting readily available recreational drones into deadly weapons.
Armed groups in Nigeria and the Sahel, long utilizing drones for surveillance and propaganda, are now modifying them for attacks.
Experts note the increasing accessibility and affordability of this technology.
Recent months have seen Tuareg separatists in Mali using drones in battle, while militant groups in Mali and Burkina Faso have claimed grenade drops and “suicide drone” attacks.
A drone attack also recently wounded Nigerian soldiers, prompting a temporary drone ban in northeast Nigeria.
Analysts warn this marks a dangerous new phase in militant operations, shifting the dynamics of regional conflicts.
Anti-drone equipment remains a critical deficit for military forces in the region.
The use of these DIY armed drones signals a concerning evolution in militant capabilities.
Residents near the Wulgo attack described massive destruction.
This development also challenges the air dominance previously held by regional militaries.
As militants potentially look to expand into urban areas, armed drones could become a key component in escalating their threat.