The Beninese army announced the killing of 45 terrorist elements during counter-terrorism operations carried out in the north of the country over a period of three months, as part of continuing efforts to confront security threats posed by groups linked to Al-Qaeda.
A military memorandum seen by Agence France-Presse stated that between October and December 2025, Beninese forces were able to “neutralize 45 terrorists and arrest seven suspects,” noting that the detainees were handed over to the competent judicial authorities.
The Beninese Armed Forces added that they confiscated weapons, motorcycles, fuel cans, and military clothing during multiple clashes, praising what they described as a “clear improvement” in their operational capabilities. Benin had deployed about 3,000 soldiers in the north of the country in 2022 as part of Operation Mirador to combat jihadist groups, before strengthening its security presence by recruiting an additional 5,000 soldiers.
The army stressed that “continuous pressure exerted by the armed forces is currently preventing armed groups from establishing a permanent presence in the border areas,” warning at the same time that “vigilance is still necessary in light of the continuing security threats.”
