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The Beninese army said on Tuesday that it killed 45 terrorists during anti-terrorism operations carried out in northern Benin over a three-month period.
The operations took place between October and December 2025, according to a military memo seen by AFP.
Northern Benin has faced growing security threats in recent years, mainly from armed groups linked to Al-Qaeda, which operate across parts of the Sahel and regularly target border areas.
Between October and December 2025, the force “neutralised 45 terrorists and arrested 7 suspects, who were handed over to the competent judicial authorities”, said an army memo seen by AFP.
The Beninese Armed Forces, also known as FAB, said several items were seized during clashes with the armed groups. These included weapons, motorbikes, fuel containers and military clothing.
According to the army, the operations show a “clear improvement” in its operational strength and ability to respond to security threats in the north.
“The constant pressure exerted by the FAB now prevents armed groups from establishing a lasting presence in border areas,” the army said.
Benin began strengthening its northern security in 2022, when it deployed nearly 3,000 soldiers under its anti-jihadist operation, “Mirador.” Since then, the country has recruited an additional 5,000 soldiers to reinforce security in the region.
Despite recent gains, the army warned that “vigilance remains essential.”
Benin, a West African nation, shares land borders with four countries: Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, and Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, with a coastline on the Gulf of Guinea to the south. These countries have faced persistent attacks from extremist groups.
