Al Qaeda’s affiliate in West Africa, Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin (JNIM), has claimed responsibility for attacks on two military posts in Benin’s northeastern Kandi province, resulting in the deaths of 70 soldiers.
The SITE Intelligence Group reported the claim, citing a JNIM statement.
The attacks are the deadliest claimed by jihadists in Benin in over a decade.
The incidents highlight the growing threat of extremist groups in the region, which have expanded their presence beyond the Sahel region.
Benin’s military authorities have faced challenges in combating the insurgency, and the country has suffered a series of attacks in recent years.
