The Chadian government has withdrawn hundreds of its troops fighting the Islamist militants, Boko Haram in neigbouring Niger Republic.

The move is coming barely a month after the vast central African country complained about an unexpected travel ban imposed on its citizens by the United States.

The country had warned that the order to ban its citizens could affect its security commitments which included its involvement in the US – backed fight against Boko Haram.

Residents say the withdrawal had already had an impact on the Diffa region of the country over the past two weeks as the rate of banditry had increased, weakening a region – wide coalition against the militants who have killed tens of thousands of people and forced many more to flee.

Lamido Moumouni, a Diffa parliamentarian said: “Residents have started complaining. They have come to rely on the forces so there is a perception that security will be lacking.”

Chad had 2000 troops in Niger at the peak of Boko Haram’s attack in Bosso although this figure had reduced over time as the country’s soldiers also occupy front – line positions among peace-keeping forces in northern Mali.