Niger military regime asserts control after gunfire in Niamey

The Minister of Defense, General Salifou Mody, stated on national television that a "group of soldiers in breach of military regulations" attempted to seize control of sensitive areas. These soldiers reportedly detained some of their comrades at Base 101 before opening fire on several sites in Niamey. Defense and security forces reportedly contained the situation and gradually regained control of the affected zones.

Gunfire and loud explosions were heard for several hours in various parts of the capital, with intense clashes reported near the airport, adjacent to military Base 101. Security sources indicated that army and presidential guard units deployed around the presidential palace, repelling an attempt to access it. National television interrupted its programming, displaying a black screen for several hours.

Authorities urged the population to remain calm and continue normal activities. Base 101, located within the Niamey airport complex, is a strategic military site housing structures related to the unified force of the Alliance of Sahel States AES. No official casualty figures or details on the extent of the clashes or the identity of the involved military personnel have been released.

General Abdourahamane Tiani has led Niger since the July 2023 coup, amidst ongoing jihadist threats and ten