Gunfire reported near presidential palace in Niamey, Niger
Security forces mobilized following reports of an attack on the presidential palace and Base 101 military airbase.
Quick Look
- Gunfire and explosions were reported in Niamey, Niger, overnight, with security forces mobilized to defend the presidential palace and Base 101 airbase.
- State television went off-air as reports emerged of an attempted insurgent attack from within the military.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
A military junta has ruled Niger for three years. The country has faced ongoing challenges with jihadist violence, including previous attacks on the Niamey airport.
Gunfire rang out across parts of the Niger capital of Niamey overnight amid reports of an attack on the presidential palace.
The cause of the shooting was not immediately clear.
Bana Wagana Ibrahim, a member of Niger's Consultative Council, shared a statement on Saturday saying: "In light of current events, let us remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information."
"Our defence and security forces have been mobilised for the defence of the homeland," the statement read.
Ibrahim had earlier condemned what he called "another cowardly attack" on the Base 101 military airbase but added that the situation was "under control."
"Once again our defence and security forces have risen to the challenge," he wrote in a post on social media.
It comes as a security source told the AFP news agency that Niger's presidential guard had fought off "insurgents from within the armed forces" who attempted to make their way into the presidential palace in Niamey on Saturday.
The west African nation's state TV was also off air on Saturday, locals told AFP, with a black screen showing in place of regular programming.
One local said they had heard "heavy gunfire and explosions" at Base 101. Several other witnesses corroborated the report.
Another resident said he heard "bursts of gunfire" at around 7 am local time.
"I went to get credit for my phone. I saw a military vehicle heading towards the base that had to turn back," he added. "The weapons we're hearing are not the kind that terrorists on motorbikes can carry. The fighting has been non-stop since last night."
A military junta has ruled Niger for three years but has struggled to contend with jihadist violence.
Jihadists have already targeted Niamey airport twice this year. The Islamic State in the Sahel group attacked in January, before the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims attacked in June.
Open Questions
- Who are the specific insurgents within the armed forces?
- What is the current status of the presidential palace?
- Why is state television off-air?
