Eastern Chad – Sudanese Situation – Flash Updates #48 (18 march 2026)

Countries: Chad, Sudan Source: UN High Commissioner for Refugees Please refer to the attached file. Key numbers 1, 517, 616 Refugees and asylum seekers in Chad as of February 8th 2026 918, 465 New Sudanese refugee arrivals from April 2023 –17th March 2026 14, 835 New Sudanese refugees registered since January 2026 Update on Refugee Movements Increase in drone attacks and cross-border incidents The week under review was marked by drone attacks attributed to Sudanese paramilitary groups (FSR/RSF) in the towns of Adikong (Sudan), on the border with Adré, and Tiné (Chad), even as the borders with Chad remain officially closed. On the afternoon of March 18, 2026, a drone attack attributed to the FSR took place in a neighborhood of the city of Tiné (Chad). According to a government statement, the toll stands at 17 deaths and several injuries (all Chadians). The victims had gathered on private property for a funeral. Read here On March 12, 2026, drones struck the Sudanese town of Adikong, near Adré, causing casualties and significant property damage. Initial reports indicate 30 people were seriously affected, including 9 deaths and 21 injuries. Among the injured were 7 Chadians, including 4 women, 6 unaccompanied children, and 8 adult Sudanese refugees. The attack primarily targeted the Adikong market, particularly fuel and goods stockpiles. This marks the third drone attack on this city since December 2025. Fighting in North Darfur resumed on March 16, 2026, particularly in Tiné, Sudan, on the border with the Tiné-Chad corridor, and led to direct incursions into Chad. The RSF briefly took control of the neighboring Sudanese town before being pushed back, but the clashes spread to Chadian military posts. These developments significantly increase the risk of disruption to humanitarian corridors. The Chadian government’s decision to close the borders with neighboring Sudan on February 23, 2026, for security reasons remains in effect. Despite this closure, people fleeing the violence are still allowed to enter Chad. Other asylum seekers, due to fighting in Sudan, are taking alternative routes slightly further away from the initial corridors. No cases of refoulement have been reported. Humanitarian activities at border crossings continue.

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