Clashes erupt in Niger's capital between presidential guard and armed forces
Quick Look
- Clashes broke out in Niamey between the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces following a night of heavy gunfire.
- The military junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani, claims to be regaining control after an attempted breach of the presidential palace.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Niger has been ruled by a military junta for three years, struggling to contain jihadist violence.
Clashes erupted in Niger’s capital on Saturday between the presidential guard and elements of the armed forces, after a night of heavy gunfire in parts of the city.
Niger has been ruled for three years by a military junta that has struggled to contain jihadist violence, which has blighted the west African country for around a decade.
“There was an attempt by insurgents from the Nigerien armed forces to enter the presidential palace,” a security source said.
“They were pushed back by the presidential guard. Exchanges of gunfire are continuing at the palace.”
An African diplomat in Niamey said that for now the presidential guard was still loyal to ruler General Abdourahamane Tiani.
The military said it was “gradually regaining control” after the mutineers took soldiers hostage at a base next to the capital’s airport.
Open Questions
- What is the current status of the mutineers?
- Are there casualties from the gunfire?
